LTL Freight Hauler Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the fast-paced world of logistics, the demand for competent LTL Freight Haulers has never been higher.
As global trade expands, the need for skilled professionals who can manage, transport, and safeguard our logistical operations grows in tandem.
But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an LTL Freight Hauler?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker trying to understand the nuances of this role,
- A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
- Or simply interested in the intricate workings of freight hauling,
You’ve come to the right place.
Today, we present a versatile LTL Freight Hauler job description template, crafted for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s dive right in.
LTL Freight Hauler Duties and Responsibilities
LTL (Less than Truckload) Freight Haulers are responsible for the transportation of partial loads, consisting of small freight or parcels.
They handle multiple shipments from different clients in a single trip, requiring special skills in organization, route optimization, and load handling.
Their duties and responsibilities include:
- Operate and manage a commercial vehicle to transport goods
- Ensure proper loading and unloading of freight to prevent damage
- Coordinate with clients or dispatchers to collect and deliver cargo
- Plan and follow the most efficient routes for delivery
- Keep a record of pickups and deliveries, and ensure all necessary documentation is completed accurately
- Perform routine vehicle inspections and report any maintenance issues
- Adhere to all traffic laws and safety regulations
- Check freight to ensure that it is properly secured before transportation
- Communicate with dispatchers, drivers, and customers as needed
- Keep logs of work and rest periods to comply with federal regulations
- Deliver goods while ensuring customer satisfaction
LTL Freight Hauler Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are seeking a dependable and efficient LTL Freight Hauler to join our dynamic logistics team.
The LTL Freight Hauler is responsible for the timely and safe delivery of Less Than Truckload (LTL) freight to various destinations.
The role involves loading and unloading goods, planning optimal routes, keeping detailed records of deliveries, and ensuring customer satisfaction.
The ideal candidate must have a good understanding of DOT regulations and be able to operate various types of commercial vehicles.
Responsibilities
- Pick up, transport, and deliver freight in a timely, safe, and lawful manner
- Plan and execute the most efficient routes for delivering goods
- Load and unload cargo as needed
- Maintain detailed logs of all transportation activities and delivery schedules
- Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections to ensure that the vehicle is safe for operation
- Adhere to all company policies and DOT regulations
- Provide excellent customer service
- Report any incidents or accidents to the supervisor
Qualifications
- Valid Class A CDL license
- Proven work experience as a freight hauler or a similar role
- Knowledge of applicable federal and state road regulations
- Physically fit and capable of lifting heavy objects
- Excellent driving record
- Strong communication and customer service skills
- High school diploma or equivalent
Benefits
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) retirement plan
- Paid vacation and holidays
- Life insurance
- Performance bonuses
Additional Information
- Job Title: LTL Freight Hauler
- Work Environment: This is a driving position that involves extensive travel. The driver may be required to stay overnight during long haul trips.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Dispatch Manager or Transportation Supervisor.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $45,000 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 an LTL Freight Hauler Do?
LTL (Less Than Truckload) Freight Haulers are professionals within the transport and logistics industry who specialize in the transportation of small freight or cargo that doesn’t require the space of an entire trailer.
Their primary responsibility is to pick up, transport, and deliver goods safely and efficiently.
The goods they handle usually weigh between 150 and 15,000 pounds, making it an important task for them to load and unload freight carefully to prevent damage.
LTL Freight Haulers are also responsible for planning their routes.
They must consider variables such as traffic, weather conditions, and delivery deadlines to ensure they meet their delivery schedules.
They maintain accurate logs of their activities, including vehicle inspections, hours of service, mileage, and cargo details, adhering to federal regulations and company policies.
In addition, they are often required to communicate with dispatchers and customers about pick-ups, deliveries, and any issues or delays that may arise during transit.
Some LTL Freight Haulers may also be responsible for loading and unloading their own trucks, ensuring that the cargo is secure for transit, and documenting any damage to the freight that occurred during transport.
LTL Freight Hauler Qualifications and Skills
An efficient LTL Freight Hauler should have the following skills and qualifications:
- Commercial driving license (CDL) is crucial along with a solid understanding of operating a variety of large vehicles safely.
- Excellent knowledge of road safety and traffic regulations to ensure the safe and timely delivery of freight.
- Strong physical stamina and manual dexterity to load, unload and arrange goods as needed.
- Experience in logistics, including route planning and meeting delivery schedules, to ensure smooth and efficient operations.
- Strong problem-solving skills to quickly address any issues that may arise during the transport process, including vehicle malfunctions or delivery delays.
- Good interpersonal and communication skills to interact professionally with clients and provide updates on shipment status.
- Keen attention to detail to maintain accurate logs of shipments, vehicle inspections, and hours worked.
- Customer service skills to handle queries or complaints about shipments and provide satisfactory solutions.
LTL Freight Hauler Experience Requirements
For an entry-level position as an LTL Freight Hauler, candidates may need up to 1-2 years of experience in relevant roles such as Truck Driver or Warehouse Associate.
This can often be gained through part-time roles or internships in logistics or transportation companies.
The candidate should also possess a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and be able to successfully pass a drug test and physical abilities test.
Some companies may also require a high school diploma or GED.
Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have developed skills in freight handling, logistics planning, and truck maintenance.
They may also have a background in managing shipments, coordinating routes, and ensuring on-time deliveries.
Those with over 5 years of experience may have some leadership experience in their background.
This could involve managing teams of drivers, training new hires, or coordinating complex logistics operations.
They may be ready for a managerial or team leader position within a freight hauling company.
It is important to note that experience in the field is not just about the number of years but also about the ability to handle the physical demands of the job, knowledge of safety regulations, and ability to manage time and routes effectively.
LTL Freight Hauler Education and Training Requirements
LTL Freight Haulers typically require a high school diploma or equivalent education.
They are required to have a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), which is obtained after passing a series of written and practical driving tests.
Different states might have various specifications for the CDL, so it’s important to check the local requirements.
In addition to the CDL, most companies require a certain amount of on-the-job training.
This training often involves working alongside an experienced driver to learn the ropes of handling, loading, and unloading freight.
Knowledge about Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations is also required as LTL Freight Haulers must comply with these standards for safety and vehicle operation.
Specialized training courses in hazardous materials transportation, refrigerated hauling, and similar topics can also be beneficial for those looking to expand their skills and opportunities in the field.
Though not required, some LTL Freight Haulers might choose to pursue an associate or bachelor’s degree in logistics or transportation to further their career.
Such education can provide a more in-depth understanding of the freight and logistics industry.
Experience in customer service can also be beneficial, as LTL Freight Haulers often interact directly with clients when delivering and picking up freight.
LTL Freight Hauler Salary Expectations
An LTL (Less Than Truckload) Freight Hauler can expect to earn an average salary of $62,000 (USD) per year.
However, this figure can vary based on factors such as years of experience, the specific company of employment, and the region in which the job is located.
LTL Freight Hauler Job Description FAQs
What skills does an LTL Freight Hauler need?
An LTL Freight Hauler should possess strong driving skills and be comfortable with long distance driving.
They must have a sound knowledge of delivery routes and the ability to use GPS devices.
Problem-solving skills, time-management, and the ability to handle unexpected situations like road closures or bad weather are also important.
They must also have good physical health to load and unload freight.
What are the daily duties of an LTL Freight Hauler?
On a typical day, an LTL Freight Hauler may start by checking the condition of their vehicle, ensuring that it’s in good working order.
They will then load the freight onto the truck, making sure it is securely fastened and organized efficiently.
Throughout the day, they drive to various delivery locations, unload the freight, and obtain delivery confirmations.
They may also need to update logs or delivery software with their progress.
Do LTL Freight Haulers require any certifications or licenses?
Yes, LTL Freight Haulers require a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
In addition, some companies may require haulers to have specific endorsements on their CDL, depending on the nature of the freight.
It’s also beneficial for LTL Freight Haulers to have a good driving record.
What qualities make a good LTL Freight Hauler?
A good LTL Freight Hauler is reliable and punctual, as delays in delivery can impact a company’s operations significantly.
They should also be detail-oriented to ensure accurate delivery of freight.
Good physical stamina is also important as the job often involves heavy lifting.
Strong communication skills are needed to interact with dispatchers and customers, and they should be able to remain calm and composed in stressful driving situations.
How physically demanding is the role of an LTL Freight Hauler?
The role can be physically demanding as it often involves loading and unloading heavy freight.
The job may also require long hours of driving, which can be physically and mentally taxing.
Therefore, good physical health and stamina are important for this role.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Today, we’ve shed light on the integral role of an LTL freight hauler.
And guess what?
It’s not just about driving trucks.
It’s about ensuring the seamless flow of goods and services, one delivery at a time.
With our easy-to-use LTL freight hauler job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to steer your career in a new direction.
But why stop there?
Go the extra mile with our job description generator. It’s your next milestone for creating precise job listings or fine-tuning your resume to perfection.
Remember:
Every delivery is a cog in the larger logistics machine.
Let’s keep the world moving. Together.
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