LTL Freight Truck Driver Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the fast-paced logistics industry, the role of the LTL (Less Than Truckload) Freight Truck Driver has never been more crucial.

As economies grow and logistics networks expand, the demand for skilled drivers who can manage, navigate, and ensure the safe delivery of our freight continues to rise.

But let’s delve a little deeper: What’s truly expected from an LTL Freight Truck Driver?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager crafting the perfect job posting,
• Or simply interested in the world of freight truck driving,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable LTL Freight Truck Driver job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

LTL Freight Truck Driver Duties and Responsibilities

LTL (Less Than Truckload) Freight Truck Drivers are responsible for transporting goods from one location to another.

They operate and maintain trucks with a capacity of at least 26,000 pounds Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW).

They must follow appropriate safety procedures to transport dangerous cargo and maintain logs of vehicle repair status and working hours.

The duties and responsibilities of an LTL Freight Truck Driver include:

• Drive long distances to deliver goods to customers
• Load and unload cargo efficiently
• Record cargo deliveries
• Refuel and clean vehicle
• Report road incidents to a 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
• Get goods to the client on time
• Maintain a positive attitude with customers
• Keep commercial driver license up to date

 

LTL Freight Truck Driver Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a responsible and experienced LTL (Less than Truckload) Freight Truck Driver to join our team.

The ideal candidate should have a good understanding of LTL freight procedures, safety operations, and excellent driving skills.

The LTL Freight Truck Driver’s responsibilities include driving safely and efficiently, maintaining accurate logs, and ensuring the timely and safe delivery of cargo.

 

Responsibilities

• Driving trucks with a capacity of more than three tons to transport and deliver cargo.
• Inspecting vehicles for mechanical items and safety issues, and perform preventative maintenance.
• Planning routes and meeting delivery schedules.
• Complying with truck driving rules and regulations (size, weight, route designations, and parking).
• Maneuver trucks into loading or unloading positions.
• Collect and verify delivery instructions.
• Report defects, accidents or violations.
• Maintaining a clean and safe vehicle.
• Managing bills of lading and necessary paperwork.

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a truck driver.
• Hands on experience with electronic equipment and software (GPS, AVL units, CB).
• Ability to drive long hours and travel regularly.
• Extensive knowledge of applicable truck driving rules and regulations.
• No recent moving or driving violations.
• Willing to submit to background/drug checks and provide employment recommendations.
• Valid truck driving license.
• High school diploma.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Training and development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: LTL Freight Truck Driver
• Work Environment: On the road, variable weather conditions. Long hours and overnight trips may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Dispatch Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based on 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 Truck Driver Do?

An LTL Freight Truck Driver, also known as a Less-Than-Truckload Driver, is a specialized type of truck driver who handles the transportation of smaller freight loads or shipments across various locations.

They are responsible for driving the truck to the desired destination, ensuring the safety of the goods being transported, and adhering to all road safety rules and regulations.

LTL Freight Truck Drivers usually pick up and deliver multiple shipments to different customers in a single route, making it crucial to plan and manage their time efficiently to meet delivery schedules.

In addition to driving, they also handle the loading and unloading of goods, inspecting them for any damages before and after the journey.

They need to coordinate with dispatchers and logistics teams to confirm delivery details and address any issues on the route.

They are also responsible for the maintenance and cleanliness of their trucks, performing regular checks on the vehicle’s condition, including fuel levels, tire pressure, and engine performance.

If there are any mechanical issues or road accidents, the LTL Freight Truck Driver must report them to the appropriate authorities and follow procedures for dealing with such situations.

Furthermore, they are expected to maintain a log of their travel and rest periods to comply with transportation regulations.

 

LTL Freight Truck Driver Qualifications and Skills

A proficient LTL Freight Truck Driver should possess the following qualifications and skills:

• Valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) with a clean driving record to ensure adherence to all traffic laws and safety regulations.
• Experience in operating and maintaining freight trucks, showcasing technical knowledge and practical skills.
• Familiarity with Less Than Truckload (LTL) shipping practices and procedures, demonstrating an understanding of the industry.
• Strong physical stamina to manage long hours of driving, and the loading and unloading of freight.
• Excellent time management skills to guarantee deliveries are made within the scheduled timeframe.
• Proficient navigational skills to find the most efficient routes and to use GPS systems effectively.
• Ability to perform minor vehicle repairs and conduct regular maintenance checks to ensure the truck is in good condition.
• Communication skills to effectively liaise with dispatchers, customers, and others involved in the shipping process.
• Problem-solving skills to handle unexpected situations like road closures or vehicle breakdowns.
• Customer service skills to handle complaints or inquiries from customers professionally and courteously.

 

LTL Freight Truck Driver Experience Requirements

LTL Freight Truck Drivers often start their careers by attending a truck driving school where they gain both theoretical knowledge and practical experience through training programs.

Entry-level drivers usually have 1 to 2 years of experience often obtained through on-the-job training or internships.

During this time, they learn to handle the equipment, understand traffic laws and safety regulations, and gain experience in route planning and freight handling.

Drivers with more than 3 years of experience are usually comfortable with driving long routes, managing freight, and dealing with the unpredictability of the road.

They may have also gained experience in managing electronic logs and freight records.

Those with over 5 years of experience may have advanced skills like managing multiple routes, handling high-value or sensitive cargo, and dealing with challenging weather or traffic conditions.

At this level, they may also have experience in training new drivers and could be suitable for a supervisory role within a freight team.

Some companies may require their LTL Freight Truck Drivers to hold specific endorsements on their Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), such as Hazardous Materials (HazMat) or Tank Vehicle (Tanker), which will require additional training and experience.

 

LTL Freight Truck Driver Education and Training Requirements

To become an LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) Freight Truck Driver, individuals generally need to have at least a high school diploma or equivalent education.

Prospective drivers typically attend a professional truck driving school or community college program that offers courses in operating a commercial vehicle.

These programs typically last between 3 to 6 months and may lead to a certificate of completion.

Before driving on their own, LTL Freight Truck Drivers must obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

The requirements to obtain a CDL vary by state but typically involve both a written and a driving test.

The driving test usually includes demonstrating the ability to maneuver a large vehicle and conduct pre-trip inspections.

In addition to a CDL, some companies require LTL Freight Truck Drivers to have a Hazardous Materials (HazMat) endorsement if they will be transporting hazardous substances.

To obtain this endorsement, drivers must pass a written test and a background check.

Many freight companies also require their LTL Freight Truck Drivers to have some experience in the industry, which can be gained through entry-level positions or internships.

Continuing education and training may be needed to stay updated with safety regulations and operation of new trucking technology.

This can be achieved through periodic refresher courses offered by various transportation and logistics organizations.

Some employers also value good physical health, as the job can be physically demanding, and often requires loading and unloading of freight.

 

LTL Freight Truck Driver Salary Expectations

An LTL Freight Truck Driver can expect to earn an average salary of $54,500 (USD) per year.

The actual income may fluctuate depending on factors such as experience, location, the employing company, and the specific freight being transported.

 

LTL Freight Truck Driver Job Description FAQs

What qualifications are needed to be an LTL Freight Truck Driver?

To become an LTL Freight Truck Driver, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent.

You also need to have a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) and have successfully completed a professional truck driving course.

Some companies may require experience in truck driving, familiarity with driving regulations, and physical fitness to handle heavy freight.

 

What are the primary responsibilities of an LTL Freight Truck Driver?

An LTL Freight Truck Driver’s responsibilities include loading and unloading freight, ensuring safe and timely delivery of goods, maintaining logs of their travel and rest periods according to federal regulations, conducting basic maintenance checks on their vehicle, planning routes using GPS systems, and communicating with dispatchers and customers.

 

What skills are necessary for an LTL Freight Truck Driver?

Critical skills for an LTL Freight Truck Driver include strong driving skills, understanding of traffic laws and safety regulations, excellent time management to ensure timely deliveries, physical stamina, ability to use GPS and other routing systems, and good customer service skills for interacting with clients and dispatchers.

 

What are some challenges an LTL Freight Truck Driver might face?

LTL Freight Truck Drivers may face challenges such as long hours, tight delivery deadlines, irregular sleep patterns due to varying shift times, and dealing with inclement weather conditions.

They must also manage the physical demands of loading and unloading cargo.

 

How can one grow in the career as an LTL Freight Truck Driver?

LTL Freight Truck Drivers can grow in their careers by gaining more experience, improving their on-time delivery rates, and maintaining a clean driving record.

They can also seek advanced certifications or specialize in hauling specific types of freight.

Some might even move into management roles, overseeing other drivers or managing operations at a trucking company.

 

Conclusion

So, we’ve just unpacked the real essence of what it means to be an LTL freight truck driver.

Surprise, surprise.

It’s not just about driving a truck.

It’s about ensuring the vital links of our economy, one delivery at a time.

With our definitive LTL freight truck driver job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to gear up.

But why hit the brakes now?

Continue your journey with our job description generator. It’s your road map to creating precise job listings or revving up your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every delivery is a crucial part of the bigger picture.

Let’s drive that future. Together.

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