These drivers carry packages and shipments from distribution centers to businesses or households. The drivers who work for package delivery services typically have one load and make several stops over the course of the day. Other drivers manage several loads in the course of a day. Drivers often have assistants who help load and unload vehicles. Drivers might take payments for cash-on-delivery shipments, or handle delivery confirmations and receipts.
Light or delivery services truck drivers maintain records such as records of cargo, vehicle logs or billing statements in accordance with regulations. They read maps, and report delays, accidents or other traffic and transportation situations to bases.
Summary
- Truck drivers, light or delivery services, operate a truck or van with a capacity of less than 26,000 GVW.
- These drivers typically deliver or pick up merchandise or deliver packages within a specified area.
- Truck drivers, light or delivery services, comprise one of the largest occupations.
Work Environment for Truck Drivers, Light or Delivery Services
Truck drivers, light or delivery services, often spend long hours sitting in their vehicles. They must be able to lift heavy packages and be physically able to unload trucks. Many drivers have regular routes; some have different routes each day. Many local truck drivers do a significant amount of walking, lifting and carrying.
Drivers, who deliver food for chain grocery stores, produce markets or bakeries, typically work long hours. These hours are usually late at night or early in the morning.
Education, Training and Licensing
To become a truck driver, most prospects take driver-training courses at a vocational or technical school. These courses help to prepare for CDL testing. Driver-trainees learn how to maneuver large vehicles on busy streets and in highway traffic. Drivers-trainees also learn how to properly inspect freight and trucks for compliance with regulations. Truck drivers must also possess a driver’s license issued by the state in which they live.
For new drivers who have already earned their CDL, employers usually provide training programs. Typically, this consists of the new driver learning the ropes from an experienced driver. Prior to getting their own assignments, new drivers might also ride along with experienced drivers. Drivers will also receive added training to handle hazardous materials or drive special types of trucks.
Employment Figures, Projections, Outlook and Earnings
Truck drivers, light or delivery services held 834,780 jobs in May 2009, according to research published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Some positions in this field include delivery driver, package car driver, route driver, run driver, package delivery driver, service provider, bulk delivery driver and utility driver.
The BLS expects employment in this field to increase up to only 6% from 2008 to 2018, which is slower than the average growth for all occupations.
BLS reports indicate that the median annual wage for salaried truck drivers was $28,330 in May 2009. The middle 50% earned between $21,410 and $38,040. While the lowest 10% had an annual income at or below $17,370, the top 10% earned upwards of $51,700 per year.