A truck driver is essential to all businesses and companies that rely on getting their product from one place to another.  Truck drivers are responsible for transporting items from one destination to another, in an effort to ensure delivery.  They occupy our highways, freeways and interstates and delivery things from automobiles to canned goods to live animals. 

It is the responsibility of the truck driver to make sure their truck is properly inspected and ready for travel.  They check fuel levels, oil and other applicable gauges and perform a series of inspections to ensure safety on the road.  It is important to secure the cargo or load that will be in route and adjust the mirrors to guarantee maximized visibility.  Anything that is not correct on the vehicle is then reported to the dispatcher who then makes a report.

Truck driver’s can spend long hours on the road and are responsible for maintaining integrity while on the thoroughfares.  It is important for them to be alert and aware of all situations in order to prevent an accident.

Cargo destinations vary as do the duration of a truck driver’s trip.  Local drivers may make several trips in a relatively small radius while other driver’s may drive the longer routes.  The responsibility and assignments pertaining to each trip vary depending on the load being hauled and the size of the truck.

Advances in technology are making the life of a truck driver easier.  Satellites and the Global Positioning System are making it simpler for drivers to communicate with headquarters.  This makes it easier for truck drivers to plan and continue on routes with knowledge of changes in the weather or other hazards that may interfere.  Global Positioning System provides the driver with a sense of security in the instance of breakdowns or traffic accidents.  Dispatchers are also able to maintain access to information concerning the trucks engine and are able to alert the driver if there are potential warnings.

Heavy truck and tractor-trailer drivers operate trucks that can carry a minimum of 26,000 pounds.  These vehicles are primarily responsible for the distribution of cars, livestock and packaged goods with excessive weights.  Many of the drivers who are responsible for these hauls simply drive.  Some drivers may also participate in the loading and unloading at the docks.

It is essential for truck drivers to document all aspects of any trip.  The US Department of Transportation requires documentation of driver miles, accidents and repairs.