Long-Haul Trucker Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the transport industry, the role of long-haul truckers has never been more crucial.

As commerce continues to expand, so does the demand for experienced drivers who can navigate, endure, and secure the success of our long-distance freight journeys.

But let’s look closer: What’s really expected from a long-haul trucker?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the requirements of this role,
• A hiring manager looking to define the ideal candidate,
• Or simply curious about the day-to-day responsibilities of long-haul trucking,

You’ve come to the right place.

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

Let’s get started.

Long-Haul Trucker Duties and Responsibilities

Long-Haul Truckers perform a range of tasks related to driving, loading, unloading, and maintaining their truck, ensuring the safe and timely delivery of goods or materials across long distances.

They often spend extended periods away from home.

Long-Haul Truckers are primarily responsible for the transportation of goods, with daily duties and responsibilities including:

• Drive long distances to deliver goods to customers
• Load and unload cargo
• Record cargo deliveries and ensure all documentation is completed correctly
• Refuel and clean vehicle
• Report road incidents to the dispatcher
• Follow traffic laws and comply with transportation regulations and standards
• Inspect their trailers before and after the trip, and record any defects they find
• Report serious mechanical problems to the appropriate personnel
• Keep a log of their activities
• Follow accident procedures if an accident occurs

 

Long-Haul Trucker Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a reliable long-haul trucker to join our team.

The long-haul trucker will be responsible for transporting goods over long distances while adhering to all safety regulations and transportation laws.

The ideal candidate must possess strong work ethics, excellent driving skills, and a deep understanding of driving laws and regulations.

Ultimately, the role of the long-haul trucker is to ensure safe and timely transportation of goods to our customers.

 

Responsibilities

• Transport goods over long distances while adhering to all safety procedures.
• Plan routes and meet delivery schedules.
• Document and log work/rest periods and miles spent driving.
• Comply with truck driving rules and regulations 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.

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a long-haul trucker.
• Ability to drive long hours and travel regularly.
• Extensive knowledge of applicable truck driving rules and regulations.
• No recent moving or driving violations.
• Adaptability and foresight to handle unexpected situations (traffic, weather conditions etc).
• Willing to submit to background/drug checks and provide employment recommendations.
• Valid truck driving license.

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Long-Haul Trucker
• Work Environment: This position requires travel and overnight stays. The trucker may be away from home for extended periods of time.
• 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 $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 Long-Haul Trucker Do?

Long-Haul Truckers, also known as Over-the-Road Drivers, primarily work for transportation and logistics companies, though some are self-employed or work on a contract basis.

Their main responsibility is to transport goods from one location to another over long distances.

They drive large vehicles such as semi-trucks, tractor-trailers, and heavy trucks, ensuring that the cargo is secured and delivered safely and efficiently.

Long-Haul Truckers also handle the loading and unloading of the goods, either manually or using special equipment.

They need to ensure that the goods are correctly placed and secured to avoid damage during transit.

These truckers must comply with all traffic laws and maintain a log of their activities, including details like driving hours, rest periods, mileage, and any vehicle issues or repairs.

They also need to conduct basic vehicle inspections before and after each trip to make sure the truck is in good running condition.

Additionally, they may be required to communicate with dispatchers or logistics managers about delays, mechanical problems, or other issues that could affect the delivery timeline.

Long-Haul Truckers often spend extended periods on the road, away from home, and must be prepared to handle any road or weather conditions they encounter.

 

Long-Haul Trucker Qualifications and Skills

A proficient long-haul trucker should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Exceptional driving skills and knowledge of various types of large vehicles and their operation for safe and efficient delivery of goods.
• Good physical condition to cope with the demands of long-distance driving, manual work and irregular sleep patterns.
• Understanding and familiarity with GPS devices, road maps, and ability to plan routes efficiently considering traffic and weather conditions.
• Strong self-discipline and reliability to manage schedules and meet delivery deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills for maintaining contact with the dispatcher, understanding instructions, and dealing with customs or inspection officials.
• Problem-solving skills to handle any vehicle breakdowns, delivery issues or unexpected delays swiftly and effectively.
• Technical knowledge of vehicle maintenance to ensure that the truck remains in good working condition.
• Knowledge of safety standards and legal trucking regulations to ensure compliance at all times.
• Customer service skills to represent the company professionally and ensure customer satisfaction.

 

Long-Haul Trucker Experience Requirements

Long-Haul Truckers usually start by obtaining their Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), which requires passing a written exam and a practical driving test.

Many trucking companies offer on-the-job training, giving drivers practical experience under supervision.

The first few years of experience for Long-Haul Truckers often involve shorter routes, gradually transitioning to longer trips as they gain more experience and confidence.

This practical experience is crucial, as it helps them to learn about the various challenges they may face on the road, such as inclement weather, difficult terrain, and managing fatigue.

Truckers with 1 to 2 years of experience should be comfortable with local and regional routes.

They should be well versed in complying with safety regulations, handling routine vehicle maintenance, and managing logbooks.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have handled national routes and are accustomed to spending extended periods away from home.

They should have experience in planning efficient routes and handling unexpected situations such as road closures or delays.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have developed supervisory skills, as they often mentor newer drivers.

They may also have experience in handling specialized freight and could be ready to move into managerial roles within a trucking company.

 

Long-Haul Trucker Education and Training Requirements

Becoming a Long-Haul Trucker typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent.

Aspiring truckers must then complete a professional truck driving course at a licensed truck driving school to understand the practical skills and theoretical knowledge needed for the job.

Upon completing the training course, they must obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

To get a CDL, the candidate needs to pass a written test on rules and regulations and then demonstrate their driving skills in a controlled setting.

Furthermore, some trucking companies provide additional on-the-job training to ensure that drivers understand company policies and procedures and can handle the specific type of freight the company transports.

While not mandatory, some long-haul truckers opt to get endorsements on their CDL, like Hazardous Materials (HazMat) or Tanker endorsements.

These endorsements allow them to haul special types of freight and may lead to higher pay.

Lastly, long-haul truckers must have good physical health and stamina, as the job involves long hours and extended periods away from home.

They should also have a clean driving record.

 

Long-Haul Trucker Salary Expectations

A Long-Haul Trucker can expect to earn an average salary of $45,000 (USD) per year.

This salary may fluctuate depending on factors such as years of driving experience, the type of freight being transported, and the specific routes driven.

Additional pay may also be received in the form of bonuses or overtime.

 

Long-Haul Trucker Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Long-Haul Trucker need?

Long-Haul Truckers need excellent driving skills and the physical stamina to manage long hours on the road.

They should have good knowledge of traffic laws and have the ability to quickly react to road conditions and situations.

They also need basic mechanical knowledge to deal with minor vehicle issues.

Additionally, they should have good time management skills to ensure timely deliveries, and strong communication skills to effectively interact with dispatchers and clients.

 

Do Long-Haul Truckers need any specific qualifications?

Long-Haul Truckers are generally required to have a high school diploma or GED.

Most importantly, they must hold a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL).

Some companies may prefer candidates who have completed professional truck driving courses.

Long-Haul Truckers must also have a clean driving record and pass physical examinations as per Department of Transportation regulations.

 

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

A Long-Haul Trucker resume should firstly include a valid CDL and a clean driving record.

It should also show evidence of physical stamina and reliability, as these are key to performing the job.

Any experience with long distance driving or previous work in a similar role would be a valuable asset.

Experience with electronic logging devices (ELDs) and other relevant technology can also be beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good Long-Haul Trucker?

A good Long-Haul Trucker is dependable and committed to making deliveries on schedule.

They are self-motivated, able to handle the solitude of long trips, and can manage stress effectively.

A strong understanding of safety procedures and regulations is vital, and they should have good problem-solving skills to handle any unexpected situations on the road.

Also, being physically fit to handle the rigors of the job is a must.

 

How challenging is it to hire Long-Haul Truckers?

Hiring Long-Haul Truckers can be challenging due to the demanding nature of the job.

Not everyone can handle the long hours, extended periods away from home, and physical demands of the job.

Therefore, it’s important to have a clear job description that accurately reflects the role, to ensure candidates understand what they’re applying for.

Offering competitive pay, benefits, and job flexibility can also help attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

There you have it.

Today, we’ve given you a glimpse of what being a long-haul trucker truly entails.

Guess what?

It’s not just about driving long distances.

It’s about paving the path of supply chains, one mile at a time.

With our go-to long-haul trucker job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to shift gears.

But why hit the brakes now?

Navigate further with our job description generator. It’s your next pit stop to crafting razor-sharp job listings or turbocharging your resume to excellence.

Remember:

Every mile on the road is a part of a larger journey.

Let’s drive that future. Together.

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