truck driver.

A truck driver performs the following tasks:

• loading and unloading trucks: as a truck driver, you load the cargo or loads onto the trucks before departure. Depending on your company, you may load the goods using forklifts, lifting or tipping devices. Some goods are also loaded by hand. You inspect the goods before departure to ensure the cargo is secure to prevent damage or loss in transit. When you arrive at your destination, you assist in offloading the materials or loads, which often involves manoeuvring the trucks. 
• verifying loading documents and certification of delivery: when picking up raw materials or goods from a warehouse or manufacturer, it is crucial to obtain loading documents. The documents are helpful for verifying deliveries. They should contain the quantity, weight and condition of items before transit. When you finish offloading goods, ensure you receive a certificate of delivery from the recipient detailing the state of the delivered items and the time of delivery.
• driving trucks: as a truck driver, your primary responsibility is to drive the trucks ferrying goods from one location to another. You should adhere to road safety regulations and follow traffic laws. It is also essential to stick to the delivery schedule and avoid delays. In case of a breakdown, you call the dispatcher to get the needed assistance.
• maintaining transport logs: as a truck driver, you maintain time sheets with details of journeys. Having a work diary or transport logs helps you keep track of the deliveries made on a particular day in case of disputes.
• inspecting goods and trucks: as a truck driver, your job involves checking the goods and products mid-trip to ensure they are in perfect condition. You also perform security checks on the trucks to guarantee a safe drive. If you spot any problems on the truck, you should seek assistance from the dispatcher.

As a truck driver, you spend most of your career on the road. One of the advantages of working outdoors is the scenic views. You also spend a significant time inside vehicles. Some companies have internal policies limiting driving times, but driving for eight to ten hours is not unusual. Truck drivers usually take advantage of truck stops and designated rest areas to relax. Since you traverse long-distance routes, you may be away from home for weeks or days. Some companies provide uniforms for truck drivers, while other employers have flexible dress codes.

Depending on your employer and the industry you work in, your colleagues might include dispatchers, logistics managers and warehouse managers. You might also be working close to forklift drivers, production worker and warehouse workers, as well as other specialists that could include, but are not limited to, procurement managers, merchandiser, inventory specialists and mechanics.

The work schedule of a truck driver varies daily depending on transport schedules and routes. If you cover long-distance routes, you will likely drive to the destination for days to complete a single assignment. Company regulations usually determine the driving hours, and you may drive for 10 hours a day before resting. Company policies dictate generally how often you can rest and any scheduled stops. Sometimes, you drive overnight or early morning to avoid missing delivery schedules. Working as a truck driver keeps you away from home for days or weeks. Hence, most companies provide leave days between trips.

Truck drivers have numerous growth opportunities. For instance, you could progress to logistics or procurement roles. Some truck drivers move to warehouse and inventory management roles, while others specialise in truck maintenance or become forklift operators. Alternatively, specialise in various truck driver specialisms like driving specialised trucks, heavy trucks or road trains.

Finding your truck driver job through Randstad provides important advantages such as:

• a wide variety of training and development opportunities
• an experienced contact person to provide help if needed
• a range of opportunities in your area
• get paid weekly or monthly, depending on the job
• temporary and permanent contracts

Want a permanent contract? A temporary job as a truck driver is often a stepping stone to an attractive permanent job. Every year, thousands of people earn a permanent contract with great employers thanks to a temporary job found through Randstad. What's more, many companies recruit their permanent employees through Randstad too.

Becoming a truck driver is an exciting job that allows you to travel and enjoy the outdoors. Truck drivers earn a good salary and other benefits. The work schedules are also quite flexible, especially for long-distance destinations. You have diverse specialisation options since you can work in various industries.

To become a truck driver, you require a driver's licence and a good driving record. Some employers prefer candidates with a Certificate III in driving operations and special licences for transporting hazardous and special materials.

As a truck driver, you deliver materials or goods from one location to another over land. You transport cargo to retail or distribution centres. You also supply materials to various industries.

As a truck driver, you require time management skills to meet delivery deadlines. Organisation skills are also important for planning routes.

Applying for a truck driver job is easy: create a Randstad profile and search our truck driver job offers. Then simply send us your CV and cover letter. Need help with your application? Check out all our job search tips here.