Glossary

Truck Driver

Definition

A truck driver is a professional who operates and drives a truck, transporting goods from one location to another as part of the logistics and supply chain process. Truck drivers are responsible for ensuring the safe and efficient delivery of cargo while adhering to local and international transportation regulations, as well as maintaining their vehicles in optimal condition.

— sennder Team

FAQ

To become a truck driver, one must typically possess a valid driver's license for the appropriate class of vehicle, complete specialized training, and acquire a commercial driver's license (CDL) or equivalent certification, depending on the country. Truck drivers must also have a good understanding of road safety regulations and possess strong driving skills.
Truck drivers in the logistics industry can be classified based on the type of vehicle they operate, the goods they transport, and the distances they travel. Common types include long-haul truck drivers, regional drivers, local drivers, and specialized drivers who transport hazardous materials or oversized loads.
In the European Union, truck drivers' working hours are regulated by the EU Drivers' Hours Regulations. According to these rules, a driver can work up to 9 hours per day, extendable to 10 hours twice a week. Additionally, drivers must not exceed 56 hours in a week or 90 hours in any two consecutive weeks.
Truck drivers are responsible for the safe and timely transportation of goods, compliance with transportation regulations, conducting pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections, maintaining accurate logbooks, and ensuring proper loading and unloading of cargo.
Truck drivers face various challenges, including long working hours, extended periods away from home, tight delivery deadlines, fluctuating fuel prices, and the physical demands of loading and unloading cargo. They may also encounter adverse weather conditions and road hazards, which can affect their ability to deliver goods on time.
Example or usage in road freight logistics

In road freight logistics, truck drivers play a critical role in transporting goods from manufacturers and distribution centers to retailers and end consumers. A long-haul truck driver may be responsible for delivering goods across the country, while a local truck driver might handle shorter routes and make multiple stops per day to deliver goods to various destinations within a specific region.

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