Expedited Cargo Driver Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the fast-paced world of logistics, the role of expedited cargo drivers has become increasingly significant.

As the demand for rapid, reliable delivery continues to grow, so does the need for skilled drivers who can ensure the safe and timely transport of goods.

But what does the job of an expedited cargo driver really entail?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager preparing to outline the ideal candidate,
• Or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes of expedited cargo delivery,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable expedited cargo driver job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s delve right into it.

Expedited Cargo Driver Duties and Responsibilities

Expedited Cargo Drivers perform various tasks related to the transportation of goods in a timely and efficient manner.

They are responsible for ensuring the safe and expedient delivery of cargo, often under time-sensitive conditions.

Duties and responsibilities of an Expedited Cargo Driver include:

• Pick up and deliver goods in specified locations as per scheduled time
• Follow delivery instructions, routes, and time schedules strictly
• Load and unload cargo from the vehicle, ensuring that they are secured properly to avoid damage
• Perform pre and post-trip inspections of the vehicle
• Adhere to all driving laws and safety procedures
• Maintain regular communication with dispatch team for updates
• Record and report any delays, issues or emergencies on the road
• Ensure cleanliness and basic maintenance of the vehicle
• Complete all necessary paperwork related to cargo delivery and truck maintenance
• Address customer inquiries or complaints professionally

 

Expedited Cargo Driver Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a reliable and dedicated Expedited Cargo Driver to transport goods swiftly and safely.

Your duties will include ensuring regular vehicle maintenance, planning routes, and meeting delivery deadlines.

Our ideal candidate is familiar with applicable safety regulations, has a clean driving record, and possesses excellent navigational skills.

Ultimately, the role of the Expedited Cargo Driver is to ensure our clients’ cargo reaches its destination promptly and securely, which is critical to maintaining our reputation for reliable service.

 

Responsibilities

• Ensure timely delivery of goods in accordance with established schedules
• Perform regular vehicle inspections to ensure functionality
• Adhere to all driving rules and regulations
• Manage routes efficiently to meet delivery targets
• Maintain log of travel details, cargo, and any incidents encountered
• Report any incidents or accidents to dispatch
• Prepare delivery documents and obtain necessary signatures
• Assist in loading and unloading cargo as required
• Communicate with dispatch and customers as necessary

 

Qualifications

• Valid commercial driver’s license
• Proven experience as a truck driver
• Knowledge of applicable truck driving rules and regulations
• Ability to handle physical workload
• Strong ability to operate and maintain a large vehicle
• Excellent driving record
• Strong time management and organizational skills
• High school diploma

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Expedited Cargo Driver
• Work Environment: On the road. Some overnight stays may be required for long-distance deliveries.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Fleet Manager or Dispatch Supervisor.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $65,000 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 an Expedited Cargo Driver Do?

Expedited Cargo Drivers typically work for logistics, transportation, or shipping companies.

Some may also work as independent contractors or for a courier service.

Their main job is to transport goods from one location to another in a timely and efficient manner.

This job often involves long distances and may require the driver to be away from home for extended periods.

They are responsible for loading and unloading the cargo, ensuring that it is secured properly to avoid damages during transit.

The driver also has to check the condition of the vehicle before and after the journey, perform basic maintenance tasks, and report any mechanical issues.

Expedited Cargo Drivers have to follow all the traffic rules, maintain logs of their travel details, and keep track of the cargo they are transporting.

If there are any issues during the transportation, such as delays due to bad weather or road accidents, the driver is responsible for informing the dispatcher or the appropriate personnel in their company.

Customer satisfaction is a crucial part of their job.

They have to ensure that the cargo is delivered in its original condition and within the designated time.

In some cases, they may also be required to collect payments and signatures from customers upon delivery.

 

Expedited Cargo Driver Qualifications and Skills

An efficient Expedited Cargo Driver must have a wide range of skills and qualifications, which can include:

• Strong driving skills and a clean driving record to ensure the safe and efficient transport of goods.
• Physical fitness and stamina to load and unload cargo, as well as drive for long periods of time.
• Knowledge of traffic laws and regulations, as well as the ability to follow these rules to maintain safety on the road.
• Proficiency in using GPS and other navigation systems to plan the most efficient routes and to avoid potential traffic issues.
• Excellent time management skills to ensure that cargo is delivered on schedule, while also making sure to take necessary breaks for rest and refueling.
• Strong communication skills to effectively interact with dispatchers, clients, and other drivers, as well as to handle any issues or emergencies that may arise during transport.
• Problem-solving abilities to deal with unexpected situations like road closures, vehicle issues, or delivery complications.
• Customer service skills to professionally and courteously handle interactions with clients, and to represent the company positively.
• Possession of a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) and any other necessary certifications for hauling certain types of cargo.

 

Expedited Cargo Driver Experience Requirements

To be an Expedited Cargo Driver, candidates generally need a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) obtained from an accredited driving school or program, which provides foundational knowledge and practical experience in handling heavy vehicles.

An entry-level cargo driver might have 1 to 2 years of experience, often obtained through part-time roles or internships with freight or transportation companies.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have spent considerable time in roles such as local truck driver or long-haul trucker, where they have gained valuable experience in driving in different road conditions, handling cargo loads, and keeping accurate logs.

Those with more than 5 years of experience typically have a clean driving record and are familiar with handling expedited cargo deliveries.

These seasoned drivers often have experience handling emergency shipments and meeting tight delivery deadlines.

Some companies prefer candidates with additional experience in handling special types of cargo, such as hazardous materials or oversized loads.

This usually requires additional certifications and practical experience.

To be prepared for managerial roles in the logistics field, a cargo driver should have experience in team management, logistics coordination, and knowledge of freight management systems.

 

Expedited Cargo Driver Education and Training Requirements

Expedited Cargo Drivers typically require a high school diploma or equivalent for entry-level positions.

The most fundamental requirement is to possess a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL).

To obtain a CDL, drivers must pass a knowledge test on rules and regulations, and then demonstrate their ability to operate a cargo truck.

Prospective drivers also typically undergo short-term on-the-job training.

This usually involves driving for a few weeks with an experienced mentor-driver to get acquainted with routes, vehicle equipment, and safety operations.

While not always mandatory, some employers prefer candidates who have completed a professional truck driving course, available at some private vocational schools and community colleges.

In addition to the driving skills, cargo drivers need a good understanding of basic vehicle maintenance and repair procedures.

Advanced courses on safety regulations and hazardous materials may also be beneficial.

For those transporting special cargo such as hazardous materials, additional endorsements on their CDL may be required.

These often need additional knowledge and skills test.

Continuing education in the form of periodic refresher courses is also common in the industry, ensuring drivers stay up-to-date with ever-changing regulations and safety procedures.

 

Expedited Cargo Driver Salary Expectations

An Expedited Cargo Driver can expect to earn an average salary of $54,000 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may vary depending on factors such as years of driving experience, type of cargo being transported, and the geographical location where the driver is based.

 

Expedited Cargo Driver Job Description FAQs

What are the qualifications for an Expedited Cargo Driver?

Expedited Cargo Drivers must possess a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) and a clean driving record.

They may also need to have a high school diploma or equivalent.

Some companies require prior experience in commercial driving or expedited cargo delivery.

It’s also important for drivers to pass a physical examination and drug tests, which is standard in the transportation industry.

 

What skills are necessary for an Expedited Cargo Driver?

Apart from driving skills, Expedited Cargo Drivers should have excellent time management skills to ensure timely delivery of cargo.

They should also have good communication and interpersonal skills for coordinating with dispatchers and customers.

Basic mechanical knowledge to perform minor vehicle maintenance and troubleshooting is also beneficial.

 

What are the typical duties of an Expedited Cargo Driver?

Expedited Cargo Drivers are responsible for loading and unloading cargo, verifying the contents of inventory loads against shipping papers, and navigating routes using GPS devices.

They also maintain logs of their activities, follow all traffic laws, report any incidents or vehicle issues to the dispatcher, and conduct basic vehicle maintenance.

 

Is it dangerous to be an Expedited Cargo Driver?

Like any driving job, there are potential dangers, such as road accidents.

However, companies prioritize the safety of their drivers by ensuring regular vehicle maintenance, providing safety training, and enforcing rest periods to prevent driver fatigue.

An Expedited Cargo Driver must also always follow traffic laws and regulations to ensure safety.

 

What qualities make a good Expedited Cargo Driver?

A good Expedited Cargo Driver is dependable and punctual, ensuring cargo arrives on time.

They have excellent attention to detail for accurate loading and unloading, and are calm under pressure, which is essential during unexpected situations like traffic delays or vehicle breakdowns.

They should also be physically fit as the job often involves lifting heavy cargo.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve lifted the lid on what it truly means to be an expedited cargo driver.

And guess what?

It’s not just about driving a truck.

It’s about delivering the goods that drive our economy, one shipment at a time.

With our go-to expedited cargo driver job description template and real-world examples, you’re primed to hit the road.

But why stop there?

Go the extra mile with our job description generator. It’s your navigator to precision-crafted listings or refining your resume to excellence.

Remember:

Every mile driven is part of a bigger journey.

Let’s deliver the future. Together.

How to Become an Expedited Cargo Driver (Complete Guide)

Workplace 2.0: The AI Jobs Apocalypse and What It Means for You

Is Your Job on This List? The Lowest Paying Careers Revealed!

Flexi-Time Favorites: Careers That Let You Bend the Rules

The Professional Pinnacle: The Most Prestigious Jobs to Reach