Heavy Haul Truck Driver Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the logistics and transportation industry, the importance of heavy haul truck drivers cannot be overstated.

As industries continue to grow and the need for transport of goods increases, the demand for skilled professionals who can successfully maneuver, load, and transport large and heavy items is on the rise.

But what does being a heavy haul truck driver really entail?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker considering a career in this field,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the ins and outs of heavy haul truck driving,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we reveal a customizable heavy haul truck driver job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive into it.

Heavy Haul Truck Driver Duties and Responsibilities

Heavy Haul Truck Drivers are responsible for transporting goods and materials over long distances.

They are required to follow strict safety regulations and are accountable for the condition of their load.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Inspecting their vehicle before and after each trip
• Adhering to all traffic laws
• Loading and unloading cargo
• Ensuring the securement of their load before transit
• Keeping a log of their activities
• Report incidents encountered on the road
• Monitoring road conditions and watch for traffic congestion and weather changes
• Follow the proper procedures for handling hazardous materials
• Communicating effectively with dispatchers and receiving instructions via radio
• Maintaining a clean and presentable vehicle
• Perform minor vehicle repairs when necessary
• Observe all Department of Transportation (DOT) laws and regulations

 

Heavy Haul Truck Driver Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a reliable and safety-conscious Heavy Haul Truck Driver to join our team.

The Heavy Haul Truck Driver will be responsible for transporting goods and heavy equipment to various locations while adhering to all traffic laws and safety regulations.

Our ideal candidate is comfortable working long hours on the road and can handle the physical demands of loading and unloading heavy cargo.

Previous experience driving heavy haul trucks is a must.

 

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy haul trucks to transport goods and materials over long distances.
• Plan routes and meet delivery schedules.
• Document and log work/rest periods and miles spent driving.
• Comply with truck driving rules and regulations (size, weight, route designations, parking and break periods) as well as with company policies and procedures.
• Maneuver trucks into loading or unloading positions.
• Collect and verify delivery instructions.
• Report defects, accidents or violations.
• Inspect vehicles for mechanical items and safety issues and perform preventative maintenance.
• Load and unload heavy equipment.

 

Qualifications

• Valid Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
• Proven work experience as a truck driver.
• Hands on experience with electronic equipment and software (GPS, AVL units, CB etc).
• Ability to drive long hours and travel regularly.
• Extensive knowledge of applicable truck driving rules and regulations.
• Adaptability and foresight to handle unexpected situations (traffic, weather conditions etc).
• Willing to submit to background/drug checks and provide employment recommendations.
• Trucking school diploma or High school diploma.

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Heavy Haul Truck Driver
• Work Environment: On the road. This role involves long hours of driving and could require overnight trips.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Transport Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $75,000 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 Heavy Haul Truck Driver Do?

Heavy Haul Truck Drivers play a critical role in the transportation and logistics industry.

They are responsible for transporting large, heavy loads from one location to another, often over long distances.

These drivers are tasked with the safe and timely delivery of oversized cargo, such as industrial machinery, construction equipment, or large vehicles.

The job requires specialized knowledge to handle and secure heavy loads onto the truck, as well as to navigate roads, highways, and sometimes rough terrains.

Heavy Haul Truck Drivers are also responsible for inspecting their vehicles before and after each trip to ensure that they are in good condition and meet safety standards.

They need to maintain a logbook of their driving hours and rest periods to comply with state and federal regulations.

Part of their job also involves planning the best routes to their destinations, taking into consideration factors such as road conditions, weather, and traffic.

They must also obtain the necessary permits for hauling oversized or heavy loads.

In the event of mechanical issues, Heavy Haul Truck Drivers are expected to perform basic roadside repairs.

In certain situations, they may also need to coordinate with dispatchers and other logistics professionals to ensure smooth operations and customer satisfaction.

Overall, a Heavy Haul Truck Driver’s job requires a combination of driving skills, physical stamina, and knowledge of safety regulations and procedures.

 

Heavy Haul Truck Driver Qualifications and Skills

A Heavy Haul Truck Driver must possess a specific set of skills and qualifications to ensure safe and efficient transport of goods.

These include:

• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) to legally operate heavy vehicles.
• Physical stamina and strength to drive for long periods of time and assist with loading and unloading goods when necessary.
• Knowledge of transportation laws, rules and regulations to ensure compliance during transit.
• Excellent driving skills, including the ability to navigate difficult routes, handle large vehicles in all types of weather conditions and safely secure loads.
• Attention to detail to maintain accurate logbooks, perform vehicle inspections and report any mechanical issues.
• Problem-solving skills to troubleshoot issues on the road and make quick decisions in emergency situations.
• Interpersonal and communication skills to interact professionally with clients, dispatchers and law enforcement officials.
• Time management skills to ensure deliveries are made on schedule and routes are planned efficiently.

 

Heavy Haul Truck Driver Experience Requirements

A Heavy Haul Truck Driver typically should have a high school diploma or GED equivalent as a minimum education requirement.

They need to have a commercial driver’s license (CDL), often with various endorsements such as oversize load or hazardous materials, which require additional training and testing.

Entry-level heavy haul truck drivers usually have at least one to two years of experience driving a commercial vehicle.

This experience can often be gained through a driving school or on-the-job training, which provides practical skills in vehicle handling, load securement, and safety procedures.

Candidates with three to five years of experience often have a solid understanding of the transportation regulations and are comfortable with long hauls, night driving, and managing difficult road and weather conditions.

They may have experience in operating different types of heavy trucks and can handle a variety of load types.

Those with more than five years of experience are considered seasoned drivers.

They may have experience in planning routes, maintaining detailed logs, coordinating load pickups and deliveries, and handling vehicle maintenance and minor repairs.

These drivers are typically seen as reliable and efficient, and they may be ready to take on roles such as driver trainer, dispatcher, or transportation manager.

 

Heavy Haul Truck Driver Education and Training Requirements

Heavy Haul Truck Drivers typically require a high school diploma or equivalent.

The most important requirement for a career in heavy haul truck driving is obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

To get a CDL, candidates must pass a series of written exams and a driving test using the type of commercial vehicle they wish to operate.

In addition to a CDL, many companies prefer candidates with professional truck driving training from a reputable vocational school.

This training typically involves a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on driving experience.

Some jobs may require additional endorsements on a driver’s CDL, such as a permit to haul hazardous materials.

Although not mandatory, some truck drivers opt for certification from organizations like the Professional Truck Driver Institute to validate their skills and improve employability.

Ongoing training is often necessary for heavy haul truck drivers as they need to stay updated on safety regulations, transportation laws, and handling new technologies in transportation.

Experience is highly valued in this profession, with some employers requiring several years of experience for certain heavy haul positions.

It’s also crucial for these drivers to maintain a clean driving record and pass regular drug and alcohol tests.

 

Heavy Haul Truck Driver Salary Expectations

A Heavy Haul Truck Driver earns an average salary of $55,000 (USD) per year.

However, the earnings can vary depending on factors such as years of experience, location, specialized skills, and the employing company.

 

Heavy Haul Truck Driver Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Heavy Haul Truck Driver need?

Heavy Haul Truck Drivers need to have excellent driving skills, a good understanding of road safety, and knowledge of truck mechanics.

They should be physically fit as the job often requires loading and unloading of heavy cargo.

Excellent time management skills are also crucial to ensure deliveries are made on schedule.

Knowledge of map reading, GPS devices, and route planning is also essential.

 

Do Heavy Haul Truck Drivers need any special license or certification?

Yes, Heavy Haul Truck Drivers require a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

Some states may require additional endorsements depending on the weight and type of vehicle being driven.

Furthermore, most employers prefer candidates who have completed a professional truck driving course.

 

What should you look for in a Heavy Haul Truck Driver resume?

In addition to a valid CDL, look for experience in driving heavy vehicles, especially those similar to the ones your company uses.

Familiarity with maintenance procedures and safety regulations is a plus.

Also, a clean driving record is crucial as it reflects the driver’s regard for safety.

 

What qualities make a good Heavy Haul Truck Driver?

A good Heavy Haul Truck Driver is reliable, punctual, and committed to safe driving.

They should have the physical stamina for long trips and the mental fortitude to deal with the stress of driving in difficult conditions.

Good communication skills are also important, as drivers need to report issues and communicate with dispatchers, clients, and law enforcement.

 

How challenging is it to hire Heavy Haul Truck Drivers?

Hiring Heavy Haul Truck Drivers can be challenging due to the specific skills and licensing required.

It’s also a job that demands long hours and extended periods away from home, which can make it less appealing to some candidates.

Offering competitive salaries, benefits, and opportunities for career advancement can help attract qualified drivers.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve taken a deep dive into the world of a heavy haul truck driver.

And guess what?

It’s not just about driving.

It’s about navigating the highways of our economy, one mile at a time.

With our comprehensive heavy haul truck driver job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to shift gears.

But why stop there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to precision-crafted job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every mile driven is a part of the bigger journey.

Let’s navigate that future. Together.

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