If you’re set to kick-start your career as a trucker, you have to take a call: should you work as a company driver or become an owner-operator? A company driver is hired by a business to transport and move their goods, materials and other items to customers, suppliers and other locations. The size and complexity of the business will determine the specific responsibilities of the role, and the individual most likely reports to an operations manager or general manager. Before you can begin your work as a trucker, you will need to obtain a TWIC card, which is a Transportation Worker Identification Credential, to show that you have passed a security background check and are eligible for getting a TWIC card.
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Responsibilities and duties of the company driver
As a company driver, I am entrusted with delivering products and materials to their various destinations safely and efficiently. An important component of this role is taking care of the vehicle I use – this requires regular maintenance, cleaning and checking. My daily responsibilities include making sure the vehicle is running in top condition, following the GPS system accurately and ensuring materials are delivered on time. I also must take special care to remain within traffic and safety laws in order to provide a safe and secure delivery experience.
Maintaining vehicles
As a company driver, it’s my duty to keep my vehicle in the best condition possible. From keeping it clean and well-maintained to making sure that all necessary parts are in good working order – it is my responsibility to see to it that my car is kept in its optimal state at all times. This entails timely replacements of services such as brake pads, oil, tires and other maintenance services. Any delay in maintenance can result in the car breaking down and incurring significantly greater costs to the company. Therefore, it is my primary task to ensure that all necessary repairs and upkeep are done promptly and efficiently, to minimize the risk of such costly problems arising.
Expert in Driving
As a company driver, it is essential that an individual has exceptional driving abilities, as well as a spotless driving record with no convictions for traffic infringements or collisions. This role also requires an individual to possess a valid driver’s license and have a comprehensive knowledge of local paths and road closures and maintenance in order to convey goods and people to their destination without risk, securely and reliably.
Managing deliveries, fences and various errands
As a company driver, I’m responsible for a wide range of tasks tailored to the specific needs of the people at the organization. This often includes tasks such as delivering packages, dropping off and collecting dry cleaning, purchasing and delivering lunches for the employees, and shuttling employees to the airport, to meetings, and other conferences. I’m also expected to assist with luggage and any other personal items, promptly loading and unloading cargo, and helping customers enter and exit the vehicle in a courteous manner.
Company Driver Skills
The individual occupying this role needs to have a remarkable level of organization and exemplary interpersonal skills. He should be able to effectively map out his schedule and focus on the intricate details. He should also possess a sound familiarity with the region’s places of business, recreational activities and tourist destinations, always ready to attend to the customers’ needs and give them the top-notch service they deserve.
Essential Skills
When looking at job postings for company drivers, many require the following fundamental skills:
- a safe and competent driver;
- professionalism and politeness;
- driving record clean;
- ability to adhere to concise and clear instructions.
Advanced skills
You can advance to a higher position by having some more advanced skills, such as
- manners of professionalism;
- adequate familiarity with traffic regulations and instructions;
- ability to lift, hold, and transport large objects physically;
- Information on car mechanics and support.
Professional tools
Learn how to use the following tools, which are used by drivers for companies
- manuals for operating vehicles;
- maps and GPS systems;
- tools for vehicle maintenance.
Company driver questions and answers
What are the main responsibilities of a company driver?
When delivering shipments to their safe and secure destinations, the driver must act professionally.
What are the challenges of this position?
Provide a professional and courteous service that considers selecting the most effective route to reach the destination to ensure customer satisfaction. Have the option to adjust the course in the event of unanticipated changes, for example, gridlocks or solicitations for another area.
What skills are most in demand in this position?
Having a global outlook and a solid understanding of the area.
What should one think about before becoming a company driver?
Does the person in question have sufficient persistence and capacity to speak with the clients.
What type of people are successful in this job?
A unique individual, genuine, with great relational abilities.
What do you find most enjoyable about this job?
When the client seems like a friend to you.
