Dry Van Truck Driver Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of mass consumption and global logistics, the role of a dry van truck driver has never been more important.

As the world’s goods continue to move from one place to another, the demand for skilled drivers who can reliably transport, deliver, and safeguard our commercial assets intensifies.

But let’s cut through the noise: What’s truly expected from a dry van truck driver?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core aspects of this role,
• A hiring manager drafting the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of dry van truck driving,

You’re at the right place.

Today, we present a customizable dry van truck driver job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Dry Van Truck Driver Duties and Responsibilities

Dry Van Truck Drivers are responsible for transporting goods from one location to another in a safe, efficient, and timely manner.

They must follow traffic laws, maintain records of their deliveries, and ensure their vehicle is in good condition.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Inspecting the truck before and after each trip to ensure it is in good condition
• Following prescribed routes for the delivery of goods
• Loading and unloading the truck as required
• Documenting and logging the hours driven and the distance covered
• Maintaining records of deliveries, including signatures from recipients
• Communicating with dispatchers and clients as necessary
• Ensuring the truck is clean and well-maintained
• Complying with all applicable federal and state laws regarding commercial driving
• Adhering to all safety procedures to reduce the risk of accidents
• Providing excellent customer service and addressing client concerns or issues promptly
• Reporting any mechanical problems or malfunctions to the appropriate parties
• Planning routes and meeting delivery schedules
• Performing basic truck maintenance tasks such as checking fluid levels and tire pressure
• Coordinating with the loading team to ensure goods are loaded correctly

 

Dry Van Truck Driver Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a reliable and motivated Dry Van Truck Driver to join our team.

The driver will be responsible for ensuring timely delivery of goods to pre-determined customers on specific routes, reviewing orders prior to delivery, loading and unloading trucks and providing exceptional customer service to our client base.

Our ideal candidate is an experienced professional with knowledge of basic truck maintenance, experience with electronic equipment and software (GPS, AVL units, CB etc), and a strong understanding of road safety regulations.

Ultimately, the role of the Dry Van Truck Driver is to ensure our products reach our customers in a timely, safe, and cost-efficient manner.

 

Responsibilities

• Drive and operate trucks. Follow instructions; locate and read location and road maps.
• Pre-inspect truck, load with goods and secure cargo prior to each trip.
• Document and log work/rest periods and miles spent driving and retain fuel/toll receipts.
• Comply with truck driving rules and regulations (size, weight, route designations, parking and break periods) as well as with company policies and procedures.
• Collect and verify delivery instructions.
• Maneuver trucks into loading or unloading positions.
• Report defects, accidents or violations.
• Ensure timely delivery of goods.
• Perform regular vehicle inspection such as checking fluid level and tires, brakes, lights etc.

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a truck driver.
• Ability to drive long hours and travel regularly.
• Extensive knowledge of applicable truck driving rules and regulations.
• No recent moving or driving violations.
• Adaptability and foresight to handle unexpected situations (traffic, weather conditions etc).
• Willing to submit to background/drug checks and provide employment recommendations.
• Valid truck driving license.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Dry Van Truck Driver
• Work Environment: On the road. Long hours and extended travel often required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Logistics Manager or Transport Coordinator.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $70,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Dry Van Truck Driver Do?

Dry Van Truck Drivers are professionals who operate vehicles to transport goods, usually for corporations or logistics companies.

They primarily handle the driving of large vehicles known as dry vans, which are enclosed trailers designed to protect goods from the elements.

Their responsibilities include loading and unloading goods onto the truck, ensuring that the goods are secured properly to prevent damage during transit.

They are also responsible for checking the condition of the truck before and after trips, ensuring that the vehicle is in good operational condition.

Dry Van Truck Drivers plan their routes in advance, taking into account potential traffic or weather conditions that could affect their journey.

They must adhere to all traffic rules and regulations and report any incidents or accidents to their company immediately.

These drivers are responsible for maintaining a log of their journeys, noting down details such as distance traveled, fuel used, and any mechanical issues encountered.

They must also manage their time effectively to ensure deliveries are made on schedule.

Additionally, Dry Van Truck Drivers often interact with clients during the delivery and collection of goods, so they must have good customer service skills.

In some cases, they may also be required to handle paperwork related to the delivery, such as invoices or delivery receipts.

 

Dry Van Truck Driver Qualifications and Skills

A dry van truck driver must possess the skills and qualifications necessary for the job, including:

• Strong driving skills to operate large vehicles over long distances, often under varying weather conditions
• Excellent knowledge of traffic laws and regulations, and the ability to adhere to them at all times
• Problem-solving skills to address issues that may arise on the road, including vehicle malfunctions or difficult driving conditions
• Physical stamina to remain alert and focused during long periods of driving, with the ability to load and unload cargo if necessary
• Time management skills to ensure deliveries are made on schedule and to plan the most efficient routes
• Strong communication skills to interact with dispatchers, receivers, and occasionally customers
• Customer service skills to handle any issues or complaints with professionalism and courtesy
• Being able to maintain accurate records of deliveries, vehicle inspections, and hours of service
• Commitment to safety, ensuring the secure transportation of cargo without damage
• Valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) and a clean driving record

 

Dry Van Truck Driver Experience Requirements

To become a Dry Van Truck Driver, entry-level candidates are typically required to have a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and a high school diploma or equivalent.

While no specific experience is typically required for entry-level positions, some companies may prefer candidates with 1-2 years of driving experience.

Such candidates often gain their initial experience through driving school programs, which provide essential training on road safety, vehicle maintenance, and cargo management.

They may also gain on-the-job experience through apprenticeships or roles as delivery drivers or courier drivers.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have developed their skills in navigation, time management, and customer service, and may be trusted with longer, interstate hauls or more complex logistical tasks.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have a proven track record of safety and efficiency, and could potentially be ready for roles that involve training new drivers, managing logistics, or supervising loading and unloading operations.

Some companies may also require their long-term drivers to have Hazardous Materials (HazMat) endorsement, depending on the nature of the cargo they transport.

 

Dry Van Truck Driver Education and Training Requirements

To become a Dry Van Truck Driver, a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required.

The most essential requirement is a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), which is obtained after completing a professional truck driving training program at a certified truck driving school.

These programs can range from 4 to 12 weeks and cover a variety of topics including driving regulations, vehicle maintenance, and safe driving practices.

In addition to obtaining a CDL, candidates must pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exam and drug and alcohol tests.

Some employers may require previous truck driving experience, especially for long haul routes, but entry-level positions are also common in this field.

Drivers are also required to keep logs of their driving hours following federal regulations and should have a good understanding of road safety and traffic laws.

While not necessary, some dry van truck drivers opt for additional endorsements on their CDL to broaden their job opportunities.

This can include things like Hazmat or Tanker endorsements.

Ongoing training throughout a driver’s career is often required to ensure safety and compliance with evolving regulations.

 

Dry Van Truck Driver Salary Expectations

A Dry Van Truck Driver can expect to earn an average salary of $47,730 (USD) per year.

However, this income can vary based on factors such as years of experience, the specific company, and the region in which they are operating.

 

Dry Van Truck Driver Job Description FAQs

What qualifications do Dry Van Truck Drivers need?

Dry Van Truck Drivers need to have a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and must comply with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations.

They should also have a clean driving record.

Experience in commercial truck driving can be beneficial.

 

What are the daily duties of a Dry Van Truck Driver?

On a typical day, a Dry Van Truck Driver starts by inspecting the truck before the trip.

They check the brakes, tires, lights, and other parts of the truck to ensure that everything is in good working order.

Throughout the day, they drive to deliver goods from warehouses to customers, adhering to all traffic laws and safety guidelines.

They also handle paperwork such as delivery receipts and logs of their travel details.

 

What qualities make a good Dry Van Truck Driver?

A good Dry Van Truck Driver has excellent driving skills and a strong sense of responsibility.

They should be able to handle long hours on the road and have good customer service skills to interact with clients.

Additionally, they should have good physical health as loading and unloading of goods can be a part of their job.

 

What should you look for in a Dry Van Truck Driver’s resume?

Look for a clean driving record and a valid CDL in a Dry Van Truck Driver’s resume.

Experience in truck driving and knowledge of routes can be added advantages.

Also, check for any endorsements they may have, like the Hazardous Materials (HazMat) endorsement, which allows them to transport hazardous materials.

 

Is it difficult to hire Dry Van Truck Drivers?

Hiring Dry Van Truck Drivers can be challenging due to the nature of the job.

It requires long hours on the road, and therefore, finding candidates who are ready for this lifestyle can be difficult.

Offering competitive wages, providing good equipment, and ensuring proper home time can make the job more appealing to prospective candidates.

 

Conclusion

And that wraps it up.

Today, we’ve uncovered the real essence of being a dry van truck driver.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about driving.

It’s about ensuring safe and efficient delivery of goods, mile after mile.

With our trusted dry van truck driver job description template and practical examples, you’re ready to gear up.

But why put brakes on your journey?

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your next destination for creating precise job listings or fine-tuning your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every mile driven is a part of a larger journey.

Let’s navigate that road. Together.

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