Light Truck Drivers
Career Snapshot
A lot of truck driving work does not take place on the open road. Short-haul drivers of light trucks and vans can spend a lot of time carrying everything from fruits and vegetables to garments. Local truck drivers frequently work more than 50 hours per week. Many of those hours are sometimes late at night or early in the morning, particularly for drivers that transport goods for chain grocery stores, produce markets, or bakeries.
Long hours of lifting, lugging, walking, and driving take a physical toll. But, no matter how fatigued they are, delivery and route drivers must provide customer service because they are typically the face of the firm whose name is on the truck. They must positively reflect the company.
Some delivery drivers also function as salespeople, collecting orders and offering recommendations based on the inventory that has been used up or left over. Working as a vending machine mechanic is also a possibility. The International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents many truck drivers.
Drivers of interstate trucks in the United States must be at least 21 years old, but truck drivers in most states must be just 18. If you drive a truck weighing 26,000 pounds or more, you must obtain a commercial driver's licence, which requires both a written and a road exam.
Despite the fact that delivery trucks are lighter, many firms have higher expectations than the government. Expect to get drug and alcohol tested, as well as have your driving record reviewed.
Driver education classes are available at both private and state technical vocational schools. However, if you have a certain company in mind, you should check with them beforehand to see what kind of training and licensure is required. Job chances will vary according on the state of the economy.