Long Haul Trucker Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of global commerce, the role of long haul truckers has never been more critical.

As trade routes expand and the demand for goods delivery soars, the need for skilled professionals who can navigate, endure, and safeguard our supply chains is paramount.

But let’s break it down: What’s truly expected from a long haul trucker?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker wanting to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the intricate dynamics of long-haul trucking,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a versatile long haul trucker job description template, crafted for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Long Haul Trucker Duties and Responsibilities

Long Haul Truckers are responsible for transporting goods over long distances while ensuring timely and secure delivery.

They also handle minor vehicle maintenance and adhere to safety regulations.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Driving long distances to deliver goods to customers
• Planning travel schedules and routes, using knowledge of roads and predicted traffic patterns
• Loading and unloading cargo while ensuring that the freight is properly secured
• Ensuring that the truck is in good working order by conducting daily inspections and performing minor repairs
• Adhering to all federal and state regulations regarding size, weight, and break periods
• Communicating with dispatchers, drivers, and customers to convey delivery progress
• Completing logs and reports on all trips, keeping track of mileage, fuel costs, and any issues encountered
• Maintaining a positive attitude and providing excellent customer service to clients
• Handling various other duties as assigned by the employer, like cleaning the truck and arranging for major repairs

 

Long Haul Trucker Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dependable Long Haul Trucker to join our logistics team.

The Long Haul Trucker’s responsibilities include driving large vehicles over long distances, adhering to all traffic laws, and maintaining accurate delivery records.

Our ideal candidate has a clean driving record, a strong sense of responsibility and is able to manage their time efficiently.

The role of the Long Haul Trucker is to ensure safe and timely transport of goods to our customers across long distances.

 

Responsibilities

• Drive long distances to deliver goods to customers
• Load and unload cargo
• Record cargo deliveries
• Refuel and clean vehicle
• Report road incidents to the dispatcher
• Follow traffic laws
• Inspect trucks and record issues
• Follow accident procedures
• Keep an activities log and log hours
• Report mechanical problems to maintenance personnel
• Plan routes using GPS system

 

Qualifications

• Valid truck driving license
• Proven work experience as a Long Haul Trucker
• Ability to drive for long hours
• Must be able to pass drug and alcohol test
• High level of physical fitness to load and unload cargo
• High school diploma

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Travel expenses covered

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Long Haul Trucker
• Work Environment: On the road. Overnight travel is frequently required.
• 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: $40,000 minimum to $70,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if travel is required)
• 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 Trucker Do?

Long Haul Truckers, also known as over-the-road truckers, work in the transportation industry, usually for trucking companies or as independent contractors.

They transport goods and materials over long distances, often crossing state lines or even international borders.

Their primary responsibility is to ensure the safe and timely delivery of their freight.

This involves planning efficient routes, monitoring road and traffic conditions, and adhering to all transportation laws and regulations.

Long Haul Truckers also inspect their vehicles for mechanical issues before and after trips and perform basic maintenance tasks.

They handle the loading and unloading of cargo, and they must properly secure the freight to prevent damage during transport.

Long Haul Truckers often have to complete paperwork, such as bills of lading and logbooks, to document their journeys and deliveries.

Lastly, they communicate regularly with dispatchers and receivers, providing updates on their progress and alerting them to any issues or delays.

 

Long Haul Trucker Qualifications and Skills

A proficient long haul trucker must possess a range of skills and qualifications to execute their job effectively, which include:

• Professional driving skills with an ability to operate large vehicles over long distances, in varying weather conditions and through different terrains.
• A clean driving record and a commercial driver’s license (CDL) to ensure compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements.
• Excellent physical health and stamina to cope with the demands of long hours on the road, loading and unloading goods, and performing minor repairs on the vehicle.
• Strong knowledge of logistics and map reading for efficient route planning, timely delivery, and understanding of national and local traffic laws.
• Good time management skills to meet delivery deadlines while also ensuring safe driving practices.
• Problem-solving skills to deal with unexpected situations like mechanical failures, road accidents, and weather disturbances.
• Interpersonal and communication skills to interact with clients, law enforcement officers, and others on the road, and to accurately fill out necessary paperwork and reports.
• Patience and mental resilience to handle the stress and solitude of long-haul trucking, and the ability to stay alert and focused during lengthy trips.

 

Long Haul Trucker Experience Requirements

Becoming a Long Haul Trucker typically requires obtaining a commercial driver’s license (CDL) through a state-approved truck driving school, where the candidates gain theoretical knowledge and practical driving experience on handling large vehicles.

Entry-level Long Haul Truckers may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often acquired through driving local routes or smaller delivery trucks.

In these roles, they learn essential skills such as map reading, vehicle maintenance, and safety procedures.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have completed numerous long-distance hauls and are well-versed in the regulations and requirements of interstate transport.

They are skilled at managing logistics, handling paperwork, and dealing with unexpected situations on the road.

Truckers with more than 5 years of experience likely have advanced knowledge of vehicle mechanics, and they might have experience with different types of trucks and cargos.

They may also have leadership experience from training new drivers or coordinating a fleet of trucks, making them suitable for roles like Team Lead Driver or Fleet Manager.

 

Long Haul Trucker Education and Training Requirements

The primary requirement to become a Long Haul Trucker is to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and this typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent as a prerequisite.

In order to receive a CDL, individuals must first acquire a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) and undergo a period of driving practice under supervision.

This practice period is followed by a skills test, which includes vehicle inspection, basic controls, and on-road driving.

Most trucking companies prefer hiring drivers who have completed a professional truck driving training course from a certified truck driving school.

These programs usually take several weeks to complete and cover both classroom instruction and hands-on training in driving trucks.

A clean driving record is crucial for a Long Haul Trucker.

In addition, many trucking companies require their drivers to be at least 21 years old to comply with federal regulations for interstate trucking.

Though not a requirement, some Long Haul Truckers choose to pursue certifications endorsed by the Professional Truck Driver Institute (PTDI).

This can enhance their job prospects and demonstrate their commitment to safety and professionalism in the industry.

Also, it’s important to note that Long Haul Truckers need to maintain good health and physical stamina as the job often involves long periods of driving and handling heavy cargo.

 

Long Haul Trucker Salary Expectations

A Long Haul Trucker earns an average salary of $66,711 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings may vary significantly based on the number of miles driven, the type of cargo transported, experience, and the location.

 

Long Haul Trucker Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Long Haul Trucker need?

Long Haul Truckers need to have excellent driving skills and a thorough understanding of traffic rules and regulations.

They should possess strong time management skills for timely deliveries.

Other essential skills include mechanical knowledge to perform minor vehicle repairs, navigational skills, physical stamina, and the ability to handle stress well.

 

Do Long Haul Truckers need special qualifications?

Yes, Long Haul Truckers need to hold a commercial driver’s license (CDL).

There may also be additional requirements depending on the state or country they will be operating in.

Moreover, some trucking companies offer their own training programs which the truckers must complete.

 

What should you look for in a Long Haul Trucker resume?

You should look for a valid CDL, clean driving record, and relevant experience in a Long Haul Trucker’s resume.

Any experience or knowledge in vehicle maintenance can be a plus.

Additionally, Long Haul Truckers often need to load and unload goods so any experience in inventory management can also be helpful.

 

What qualities make a good Long Haul Trucker?

A good Long Haul Trucker is reliable and punctual as timely delivery is critical in this job.

They should be responsible and safety-conscious, maintaining their vehicles and following all traffic rules strictly.

Good physical health is also essential as the job involves long driving hours and some manual labor.

They must also possess strong problem-solving skills, to handle any unexpected issues that may arise during the journey.

 

Is it hard to recruit Long Haul Truckers?

Recruiting Long Haul Truckers can be challenging due to the demanding nature of the job, which includes long hours on the road and extended periods away from home.

It’s important to offer a competitive salary, comprehensive health benefits, and a supportive work environment to attract and retain qualified truckers.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve uncovered the real journey behind being a long haul trucker.

Surprise!

It’s not just about driving for miles on end.

It’s about connecting our world, one delivery at a time.

With our comprehensive long haul trucker job description template and real-world examples, you’re all ready to roll.

But why end your journey here?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your expressway to meticulously crafted job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every mile driven is a part of a bigger journey.

Let’s traverse that path. Together.

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