Local Truck Driver Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s fast-paced world, the focus on local truck drivers has never been more significant.

Commerce moves forward, and with each mile, the demand for skilled drivers who can navigate, deliver, and safeguard our supply chain grows louder.

But let’s shift gears: What’s truly expected from a local truck driver?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager drafting the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply curious about the day-to-day duties of a local truck driver,

You’re in the right lane.

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

Let’s hit the road and dive right into it.

Local Truck Driver Duties and Responsibilities

Local Truck Drivers perform tasks related to transporting goods from one location to another within a specific local area.

Their duties often involve ensuring the safe and timely delivery of goods, in addition to maintaining the condition of their vehicle.

Local Truck Drivers have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Drive vehicles to designated destinations for customer product deliveries
• Review orders before and after delivery to ensure that orders are complete, the charges are correct, and the customer is satisfied
• Assist in loading and unloading truck by using hoists or by hand
• Maintain logs of activities and complete pre and post-trip inspections to ensure the truck is well-maintained and safe for travel
• Assist workers in loading and unloading trucks
• Check mechanical aspects of the vehicle
• Drive within the delivery area which could include residential and commercial locations
• Comply with truck driving rules and regulations as well as with company policies and procedures
• Manage routes and routines so they proceed in the most efficient way possible
• Communicate with dispatchers, supervisors, and teammates to ensure smooth delivery operations
• Report any accidents or vehicle issues encountered while enroute, to supervisors

 

Local Truck Driver Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a reliable and experienced Local Truck Driver to safely transport goods to our clients within a local region.

The responsibilities of the Local Truck Driver include loading and unloading products, following traffic regulations, and maintaining accurate delivery records.

Our ideal candidate has a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), an excellent driving record, and is familiar with local traffic laws and routes.

Ultimately, the Local Truck Driver’s goal is to ensure that our clients receive their goods on time and in excellent condition.

 

Responsibilities

• Safely transport goods to clients within a local region
• Load and unload products from the truck
• Follow all traffic laws and regulations
• Maintain accurate records of deliveries
• Inspect the truck before and after each trip
• Report any accidents or vehicle issues to the management team
• Provide excellent customer service during deliveries
• Map delivery routes to ensure timely deliveries
• Help with product assembly or installation upon delivery if needed

 

Qualifications

• Valid commercial driver’s license (CDL)
• Proven experience as a Truck Driver
• Excellent driving record with no traffic violations
• Knowledge of applicable truck driving rules and regulations
• Familiarity with local routes and neighborhoods
• Ability to lift heavy products
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Excellent time management skills
• Good customer service skills

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Uniform allowance

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Local Truck Driver
• Work Environment: Local routes, home every night. Physical activity including lifting and carrying products.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Transportation Manager.
• 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)
• 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 Local Truck Driver Do?

Local Truck Drivers are primarily responsible for transporting goods from one location to another within a specific local area or region.

They can be self-employed or work for shipping companies, logistics companies, manufacturing industries, or retail businesses.

They operate various types of trucks such as delivery trucks, dump trucks, or tractor-trailers, depending on the nature of the goods to be transported.

Their day-to-day tasks include driving the truck to the designated location, loading and unloading goods, ensuring the safe delivery of goods, and maintaining accurate delivery records.

Local Truck Drivers also perform routine checks and basic maintenance on their vehicles to ensure they are in good working condition.

This may include checking the oil, brakes, and tires, as well as making sure all lights and signals are functioning properly.

They are also responsible for complying with local driving laws and regulations, ensuring the safety of the cargo, and providing excellent customer service when interacting with clients or customers during pickups and deliveries.

Some Local Truck Drivers may also be required to collect payments for deliveries or provide receipts for goods received.

 

Local Truck Driver Qualifications and Skills

Local Truck Drivers should possess a mix of technical skills, interpersonal abilities, and safety knowledge in order to effectively and safely transport goods.

Such qualifications include:

• Profound knowledge of vehicle mechanics and ability to perform minor repairs and maintenance on the truck to ensure its smooth functioning.
• Excellent driving skills and a clean driving record, demonstrating the ability to operate large vehicles safely and efficiently.
• Strong understanding of traffic laws and regulations, ensuring safety and compliance on the road.
• Effective time management skills to complete deliveries promptly and meet schedules.
• Good physical endurance, as the role may require loading and unloading cargo, and long hours on the road.
• Strong problem-solving skills to handle unexpected situations such as road accidents, bad weather conditions, and vehicle breakdowns.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to liaise with dispatchers, customers, and law enforcement officials.
• Understanding of customer service principles, to interact professionally with customers during delivery and pick-up.
• Possession of a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL).

 

Local Truck Driver Experience Requirements

Local truck drivers typically need to have a high school diploma or equivalent qualification.

Prior to starting their career, they must obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL) which involves passing both a written and a practical test.

Some companies offer in-house training to help new drivers acquire their CDL, while others may require the individual to already have the license upon hiring.

Most employers prefer candidates with at least 1 to 2 years of experience driving a truck or other large vehicles.

This experience can be gained through other driving jobs, military service, or vocational training programs.

In addition to driving experience, local truck drivers need to have a solid knowledge of vehicle maintenance and repair, understanding of traffic laws and safety regulations, and excellent time management skills.

For those with more than 3 years of experience in truck driving, opportunities for advancement may open up, such as becoming a dispatcher or moving into a supervisory or managerial role.

Individuals with over 5 years of experience may have an extensive understanding of logistics and transportation, making them suitable for roles that require strategic planning and operations management.

 

Local Truck Driver Education and Training Requirements

To become a local truck driver, the minimum education requirement is usually a high school diploma or equivalent.

Afterward, aspiring drivers need to attend a professional truck driving school to learn the skills necessary for the job.

The programs offered by these schools typically last between four and six weeks, and cover topics such as vehicle inspection, basic control of the truck, and on-road driving.

Upon completion of the driving school program, candidates must obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL).

Obtaining a CDL typically involves passing both a written test and a practical driving test.

In addition to the CDL, many employers prefer drivers who have some on-the-job training or experience.

This could be gained through an apprenticeship or similar program.

Some employers may require drivers to hold certain endorsements on their CDL, such as the ability to haul hazardous materials.

These endorsements require additional testing.

Finally, since safety is paramount in this profession, many employers prefer candidates with a clean driving record and may require regular drug and alcohol screenings.

Continual training in safety regulations and procedures is also often a part of the job.

 

Local Truck Driver Salary Expectations

A Local Truck Driver earns an average of $54,727 (USD) per year.

The actual salary a truck driver makes can depend on factors such as years of driving experience, specific location, the company they work for, and the type of goods they transport.

 

Local Truck Driver Job Description FAQs

What skills does a local truck driver need?

Local truck drivers need to have excellent driving skills and a good understanding of traffic laws.

They should be able to operate large vehicles safely, have a good sense of direction, and be able to navigate through local routes effectively.

Good physical stamina is also essential as they may need to load and unload goods.

Communication and customer service skills are also important since they may interact with clients or customers.

 

Do local truck drivers need a license or certification?

Yes, local truck drivers need to have a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL).

The requirements to obtain a CDL may vary from state to state.

It typically involves passing a written test and a practical driving exam.

Some companies may also require drivers to have a certification in handling hazardous materials.

 

What should you look for in a local truck driver resume?

When reviewing a local truck driver’s resume, first check for a valid commercial driver’s license.

Also, look for experience in driving trucks and familiarity with local routes.

Any experience in loading and unloading goods, particularly heavy items, is a plus.

Good driving records with minimal traffic violations also demonstrate a driver’s reliability and safety consciousness.

 

What qualities make a good local truck driver?

A good local truck driver is reliable, punctual, and responsible.

They understand the importance of delivering goods on time and are committed to maintaining safety on the road.

They have good physical stamina and are capable of handling heavy goods.

They are also patient and can handle stress, especially in situations like heavy traffic or delays.

Good communication and customer service skills are also valuable as they represent the company to clients or customers.

 

How demanding is the job of a local truck driver?

The job of a local truck driver can be demanding, as it may require early morning starts, late-night finishes, and sometimes working on weekends.

It may involve heavy lifting and prolonged sitting.

However, unlike long-haul drivers, local truck drivers usually return home at the end of their shifts, which can offer a better work-life balance.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve unraveled the intricate details of what it really means to be a local truck driver.

And guess what?

It’s not just about driving.

It’s about becoming the backbone of supply chain, one delivery at a time.

With our precise local truck driver job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to hit the road.

But why stop there?

Go the extra mile with our job description generator. It’s your pathway to creating the perfect job listings or honing your resume to excellence.

Remember:

Every delivery contributes to the larger supply chain.

Let’s pave the way forward. Together.

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