Long-Haul Box Truck Driver Job Description [Updated for 2025]

long-haul box truck driver job description

In the modern logistics industry, the role of long-haul box truck drivers has never been more crucial.

As goods transportation continues to evolve, the demand for skilled professionals who can reliably deliver products across long distances grows steadily.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a long-haul box truck driver?

Whether you are:

  • A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
  • A hiring manager building an image of the ideal candidate,
  • Or simply curious about the world of long-haul driving,

You’re in the right place.

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

Let’s get started.

Long-Haul Box Truck Driver Duties and Responsibilities

Long-Haul Box Truck Drivers are responsible for transporting goods over long distances while ensuring that they and the truck are in compliance with all rules, regulations, and laws.

They also have to maintain communication with dispatchers and handle any unexpected situations or delays that may arise.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

  • Operating and driving the truck to transport goods over long distances
  • Planning the most efficient routes using GPS and traditional maps
  • Ensuring timely delivery of goods
  • Inspecting the vehicle for mechanical items and safety issues and performing preventative maintenance
  • Documenting and log work/rest periods and kilometers spent driving
  • Adhering to all driving rules and regulations as well as company policies
  • Assisting with the loading and unloading of the truck
  • Communicating effectively with dispatchers about delays or problems on the route
  • Submitting reports detailing any incidents, vehicle issues, or cargo damages
  • Conducting basic maintenance tasks such as checking the oil, water, and tires
  • Managing paperwork related to deliveries, including signatures, insurance, and any other necessary documentation

 

Long-Haul Box Truck Driver Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Long-Haul Box Truck Driver to join our team.

The candidate will be responsible for transporting goods from one place to another using heavy or tractor-trailer trucks while operating equipment safely and efficiently.

The ideal candidate should be physically fit, reliable, and should have a clean driving record.

 

Responsibilities

  • Operate and drive primarily tractor-trailor, long-combination vehicle and straight-body trucks weighing over 4500 kg to transport goods and materials over long distances
  • Plan driving routes using maps or satellite tracking to deliver goods in the most efficient way
  • Perform pre-trip, en route and post-trip inspection of vehicle systems, equipment and accessories such as tires, lights and turning signals, brakes and cold storage
  • Ensure cargo is secured properly in accordance with safety requirements
  • Communicate effectively with dispatchers, warehouses and customers
  • Record cargo information, hours of service, distance travelled and fuel consumption
  • Administer bills of lading and manually or electronically maintain log books
  • Comply with all transportation standards and regulations

 

Qualifications

  • Valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
  • Proven work experience as a truck driver
  • Ability to drive long hours and travel regularly
  • Familiarity with driving rules and regulations
  • Good knowledge of truck maintenance
  • No recent moving or driving violations
  • Adaptability and foresight to handle unexpected situations (traffic, weather conditions etc)
  • High school diploma

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

  • Job Title: Long-Haul Box Truck Driver
  • Work Environment: On the Road. This role involves long-distance travel and overnight stays.
  • 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: $38,000 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 a Long-Haul Box Truck Driver Do?

Long-Haul Box Truck Drivers are responsible for the transportation of goods between locations over long distances.

These distances can span across a city, state, or even the country.

Their main task is to drive a box truck, a vehicle with a freight area separated from the cab, ensuring that the goods reach the designated location in a timely and safe manner.

Before each trip, they perform a pre-trip inspection of the vehicle to ensure it is in good working condition.

They examine the brakes, tires, and fluid levels, and address any mechanical issues that could compromise the safety of the journey.

During the journey, they monitor traffic and weather conditions to determine the best routes and make adjustments as necessary.

They also maintain logs of their travels, including information about rest periods, delivery times, and any vehicle maintenance performed along the way.

Upon reaching the destination, they are responsible for unloading or overseeing the unloading of the goods, ensuring they arrive in the same condition as when they were loaded.

Long-Haul Box Truck Drivers also often communicate with dispatchers or customers to provide updates on delivery timelines and any issues that may arise.

They may also be required to collect signatures or payments upon delivery.

 

Long-Haul Box Truck Driver Qualifications and Skills

Long-Haul Box Truck Drivers are required to possess a range of technical and soft skills, along with specific knowledge about the industry, as mentioned below:

  • Possessing a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) with a clean driving record, demonstrating an ability to adhere to traffic regulations and operate the vehicle safely.
  • Strong physical health and endurance to handle long hours of driving over extended distances, often involving overnight routes.
  • Knowledge of truck mechanics to perform basic maintenance tasks, identify potential issues, and communicate effectively with service personnel if more complex repairs are needed.
  • Time management skills to ensure timely delivery of goods, considering factors like road conditions, weather, traffic, and scheduled rest periods.
  • Ability to operate electronic logging devices (ELDs) and GPS systems to track hours of service (HOS) and plan efficient routes.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills to interact professionally with dispatchers, warehouse staff, and customers during pick-ups and deliveries.
  • Problem-solving skills to handle any issues that may arise during transit, such as delays, route changes, or unexpected breakdowns.
  • Understanding of Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations and compliance standards to maintain safety and legality in all operations.

 

Long-Haul Box Truck Driver Experience Requirements

Long-Haul Box Truck Drivers generally need to possess a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), which involves passing a knowledge test and a skills test that includes a vehicle inspection, basic controls, and a road test.

Experience requirements often start at the entry-level with at least one to two years of commercial driving experience, which can be obtained through employment in local delivery services, trucking companies or similar roles.

Candidates with more than 3 years of driving experience have likely gained familiarity with long distance routes, schedule management, and maintaining detailed driving logs.

They also have developed advanced technical skills such as understanding the mechanics of the truck and handling unexpected vehicle issues on the road.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have demonstrated consistent safety records, excellent time management, and efficient fuel usage.

They may also have experience in training or supervising new drivers, making them ready for a team-lead or managerial role in the trucking industry.

Certain employers might require their Long-Haul Box Truck Drivers to have experience with specific types of cargo, routes, or additional endorsements on their CDL, such as the ability to handle hazardous materials.

 

Long-Haul Box Truck Driver Education and Training Requirements

Long-Haul Box Truck Drivers typically require a high school diploma or equivalent education.

They must undergo a professional truck driving training course at a certified truck driving school where they learn the practical and theoretical aspects of operating large vehicles, maintaining vehicle safety, and understanding federal and state transport laws.

Upon completion of the course, drivers are required to obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL).

The specific class of CDL required can vary depending on the size and weight of the truck to be operated.

Additional endorsements may be needed for hauling certain types of goods.

For instance, a Hazardous Materials (HazMat) endorsement is required for drivers transporting hazardous materials.

Although not mandatory, some drivers may opt for advanced training courses or professional certifications that emphasize specific skills such as eco-driving or advanced vehicle maintenance.

Experience is also highly valued in this role, and many drivers start with shorter routes before moving on to long-haul assignments.

It’s also important for Long-Haul Box Truck Drivers to have good physical health, as the job can be physically demanding and often requires long periods of time on the road.

 

Long-Haul Box Truck Driver Salary Expectations

The average salary for a Long-Haul Box Truck Driver is $51,072 (USD) per year.

However, the actual income can vary significantly based on factors such as experience, the distance covered on each trip, the type of cargo being transported, and the location of the job.

Some companies also offer additional compensation for overtime, weekend or holiday work, and bonuses for safety or performance.

 

Long-Haul Box Truck Driver Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Long-Haul Box Truck Driver need?

Long-Haul Box Truck Drivers need a range of skills such as excellent driving ability, understanding of road safety, and knowledge of traffic laws.

They should also possess physical fitness for loading and unloading cargo if needed, the ability to navigate using GPS, and the ability to perform basic vehicle maintenance.

Good communication skills are also essential for interacting with clients and dispatchers.

 

What are the license requirements for a Long-Haul Box Truck Driver?

A Long-Haul Box Truck Driver must have a valid driver’s license and a clean driving record.

In addition, they may need a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) depending on the size of the vehicle and the amount of cargo being transported.

Some companies may also require drivers to complete a professional driving course.

 

What should you look for in a Long-Haul Box Truck Driver’s resume?

When reviewing a Long-Haul Box Truck Driver’s resume, look for a valid driver’s license number and check their driving history.

Previous experience in long-haul driving is essential, and experience with specific types of cargo may be beneficial.

Certifications from professional driving courses can also be a plus.

It’s also essential to check references to ensure the driver has a history of reliability and safety.

 

What qualities make a good Long-Haul Box Truck Driver?

A good Long-Haul Box Truck Driver is reliable, punctual, and has excellent attention to detail to ensure cargo is loaded, transported, and unloaded safely.

They should have good physical stamina and be able to cope with long periods of driving and irregular hours.

Good problem-solving skills are also important, as they may need to deal with unforeseen circumstances like road closures or vehicle breakdowns.

A commitment to safety and the ability to remain calm under pressure are also key qualities.

 

How can one become a Long-Haul Box Truck Driver?

To become a Long-Haul Box Truck Driver, one must first obtain a regular driver’s license and then acquire a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

The requirements for a CDL vary by state, but typically involve passing both a written test and a driving test.

Prior experience in truck driving or attending a professional truck driving school can be beneficial.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve revealed the true essence of a Long-Haul Box Truck Driver.

Guess what?

It’s not just about driving.

It’s about ensuring the safe delivery of goods across vast distances, one mile at a time.

With our ready-made Long-Haul Box Truck Driver job description template and real-life examples, you’re all set to steer your career in a new direction.

But why hit the brakes there?

Accelerate your journey with our job description generator. It’s your next stop for meticulously crafted job listings or fine-tuning your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every mile covered is part of a larger journey.

Let’s hit the road. Together.

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