What Does a Company Driver Do?

Company drivers are responsible for the safe and efficient delivery of goods or materials. They spend their days on the road, hauling everything from furniture to food to auto parts. Their job is physically demanding but they also have to be attentive to details such as traffic patterns, weather conditions, and other factors that could impact their safety while driving.

Company Driver Job Duties

A company driver typically has a wide range of responsibilities, which can include:

• Delivering freight to specified locations within a set timeframe
• Inspecting vehicles for damage, noting any mechanical problems, or loading and securing cargo
• Driving trucks that are equipped with specialized equipment such as tractors, trailers, or tankers
• Following company rules regarding hours of service and rest periods
• Working with dispatchers to determine the best route to take based on traffic conditions or any other factors that may impact safety or delivery time
• Maintaining accurate records of mileage, fuel usage, and other data related to a shipment’s progress
• Loading and unloading cargo onto trucks using forklifts, cranes, or other heavy equipment
• Enforcing company policies regarding the safe operation of trucks and equipment
• Following rules regarding vehicle inspections and maintenance, such as checking tire pressure and oil levels regularly

Company Driver Salary & Outlook

Company drivers’ salaries vary depending on their level of experience, the type of company they drive for, and the length of time they spend on the road. Some drivers may also receive additional compensation in the form of overtime pay or bonuses.

• Median Annual Salary: $71,751 ($34.5/hour)
• Top 10% Annual Salary: $114,000 ($54.81/hour)

The employment of company drivers is expected to grow much faster than average over the next decade.

The need to reduce costs and increase efficiency will continue to drive demand for truckload carriers, which employ the highest percentage of company drivers. In addition, the growth of e-commerce will lead to increased demand for less-than-truckload (LTL) shipments, which are more cost-effective than truckload shipments.

Company Driver Job Requirements

To become a company driver, you may need to have:

Education: A minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent is often a requirement for a company driver position. Some companies may prefer or require a college degree. A degree in logistics, transportation or another related field can help you get a company driver position.

Training & Experience: Most companies will train a new driver on the job. This training can last for a few days to a few weeks, depending on the company. The training will usually include a period of shadowing a more experienced driver, followed by a period of driving with an instructor in the passenger seat.

Certifications & Licenses: Company drivers don’t need any certifications to earn their licenses, but they can complete a combination of classroom and practical training to earn a CDL. Since company drivers will be driving a commercial vehicle, they need to have a license that says CM on it.

Company Driver Skills

Company drivers need the following skills in order to be successful:

Time management: Time management is the ability to plan and execute tasks in a timely manner. Company drivers often have a set schedule of stops and deliveries that they must adhere to. This requires them to plan their routes and drive at a safe speed to ensure they arrive at their destinations on time.

Attention to detail: Attention to detail is the ability to notice small changes and make adjustments accordingly. Company drivers often have to follow strict schedules and routes, so it’s important to pay close attention to the details of your job. This can help you complete your tasks on time and ensure you don’t miss any important information. It can also help you avoid accidents and keep your vehicle in good condition.

Customer service: Customer service skills can help you interact with customers and clients. As a company driver, you may be responsible for delivering products or services to customers. Customer service skills can help you communicate with customers and ensure they are satisfied with your service. You can also use customer service skills to answer questions about your company’s products or services.

Mechanical aptitude: A company driver’s mechanical aptitude is the ability to understand and perform basic vehicle maintenance. This includes knowing how to check the oil, change a tire and perform other routine tasks. Having a strong aptitude for mechanical skills can help you save money by performing your own maintenance and prevent costly breakdowns.

Communication: Communication is the act of exchanging information. Company drivers must be able to communicate with their dispatcher, other drivers and other members of their team. They must also be able to communicate with customers and suppliers. Effective communication can help you build strong relationships with others and improve your overall job performance.

Company Driver Work Environment

Company drivers typically work long hours, often driving for 10 or more hours at a time. They may be away from home for days or weeks at a time, and they often have to deal with traffic congestion, bad weather, and other hazards. The job can be stressful, and drivers must be able to stay calm and focused while behind the wheel. They also must be able to follow directions and adhere to schedules. Some companies provide their drivers with a sleeper cab so that they can take breaks and get some rest while on the road.

Company Driver Trends

Here are three trends influencing how company drivers work. Company drivers will need to stay up-to-date on these developments to keep their skills relevant and maintain a competitive advantage in the workplace.

Driverless Trucks Are Here

Driverless trucks are here, and they are already being used in some parts of the world. This means that truck drivers will need to learn new skills in order to stay competitive.

One of the most important skills that truck drivers will need to learn is how to operate driverless trucks. This includes learning how to program the truck’s route and monitor its progress. Truck drivers will also need to be able to troubleshoot any problems that may occur during operation.

More Driver-Friendly Workplaces

As technology advances, so does the way we work. One of the latest trends is towards more driver-friendly workplaces, which allows truck drivers to spend more time on the road and less time at the office.

This trend is being driven by a number of factors, including the increasing demand for goods and services, the need for greater efficiency, and the desire to reduce costs. As a result, truck drivers can expect to see an increase in opportunities that allow them to work remotely or set their own hours.

The Rise of the Gig Economy

The rise of the gig economy has been one of the most significant economic developments in recent years. The gig economy refers to the growing number of people who work as independent contractors rather than full-time employees.

This trend is having a major impact on the trucking industry, as more and more truck drivers are choosing to become independent contractors. This allows them to work when and where they want, while still earning a decent income.

How to Become a Company Driver

A company driver career can be a great way to get your foot in the door of the trucking industry. It’s a good idea to start by working for a small carrier that specializes in local deliveries. This will give you the opportunity to learn the ropes and gain experience driving different types of trucks.

Once you have some experience under your belt, you can move on to bigger carriers that offer long-distance routes. This is a great way to see more of the country and make more money. As you progress in your career, you may want to become a trainer or mentor new drivers.

Advancement Prospects

Company drivers can advance to become lead drivers, transportation coordinators, or dispatch managers. Lead drivers are responsible for training new drivers and may also act as a liaison between the company and its clients. Transportation coordinators oversee the scheduling of all company drivers and vehicles. Dispatch managers are responsible for the dispatch department and its employees.

Company Driver Job Description Example

We are looking for an experienced and professional driver to join our team and help us provide safe and efficient transportation for our employees, clients, and guests. The ideal candidate will have a clean driving record, a valid driver’s license, and experience driving in a corporate or professional environment. He or she will be responsible for transporting employees, clients, and guests to and from our office, as well as running errands and making deliveries as needed. The driver will also be responsible for maintaining the cleanliness and organization of the company vehicles.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Drive company vehicles to transport personnel and materials to and from specified destinations in a safe and timely manner
• Adhere to all traffic laws and defensive driving techniques while en route
• Inspect vehicle before each trip to ensure tire pressure, fluid levels, and safety equipment are all up to standard
• Keep accurate records of mileage, fuel usage, and any incidents or accidents that occur during trips
• Assist with loading and unloading cargo as needed
• Notify management of any mechanical issues that arise with the vehicle
• Undergo regular training to maintain valid license and keep up with changes in traffic law
• Perform basic maintenance on the vehicle as needed such as washing, fueling, and checking oil levels
• May be responsible for scheduling appointments and making reservations for passengers
• Handle customer inquiries and complaints in a professional manner
• Remain calm and levelheaded in the event of an emergency
• Other duties as assigned

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Valid Class A CDL
• At least 23 years old
• 3 months experience (or equivalent training)
• Clean MVR and PSP reports
• Safe driving record
• Ability to pass a DOT physical and drug screen

Preferred Skills and Qualifications

• 6 months experience
• Tanker and hazmat endorsements
• TWIC card
• Doubles/triples endorsement
• Experience driving in adverse weather conditions
• Flexibility to stay out on the road for extended periods of time