Description
Operate commercial trucks—including straight trucks and tractor-trailer combinations—to transport goods safely and on schedule. Load or unload as needed, verify documentation, and comply with DOT and company policies. May require a commercial driver’s license depending on vehicle class.
- • Remove debris or dunnage from cargo areas.
- • Follow special procedures for refrigerated, oversized, hazardous, or live cargo.
- • Direct or assist loaders and laborers during loading.
- • Install or remove tire chains or other seasonal or safety equipment.
- • Perform emergency roadside fixes such as changing lights or tires when safe.
- • Use auxiliary power units or idle-reduction systems to reduce idling and power cab equipment.
- • Follow DOT and hazardous materials safety procedures when applicable.
- • Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections of mechanical, safety, and emergency equipment.
- • Maintain hours-of-service and vehicle service logs per federal and state regulations.
- • Obtain delivery receipts or signatures and collect payments when required.
- • Position vehicles safely at docks or sites using spotter signals as needed.
- • Drive straight trucks or tractor-trailers to transport goods, materials, or livestock.
- • Secure cargo with straps, chains, blocks, or covers.
- • Review bills of lading and shipping documents to confirm assignments.
- • Report vehicle defects, accidents, violations, or damage promptly.
- • Use maps or GPS to plan and follow routes.
- • Couple and uncouple trailers, connecting or disconnecting air and electrical lines when applicable.
- • Verify delivery instructions and routes with dispatch or customers.
- • Inspect trailers or cargo areas after unloading for damage or residue.
- • Raise or lower landing gear to secure trailers when applicable.
- • Perform basic maintenance such as fueling, adding fluids, minor repairs, or washing trucks.
- • Inspect and count freight to verify quantities and condition.
- • Adjust routes for traffic, weather, or restrictions to save time and fuel.
- • Inspect load securement before departure and at stops.
- • Check all load-related documentation for completeness and accuracy.
- • Stop at weigh stations and comply with state and federal regulations.
- • Use in-cab technology (ELDs, CB radios, phones, GPS) to communicate with dispatch and other drivers.
- • Load or unload freight using forklifts, pallet jacks, liftgates, or by hand.
- • Wrap, pad, or strap goods to prevent damage.
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Supply Chain & Transportation
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Source
Tasks & skills:
O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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Sources & Standards:
This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
