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• LONG-DISTANCE DRIVERS, also called long haul or over-the-road drivers, operate heavy trucks and may make a trip and return the same day, or lay over until the next day. Others may travel to more distant points and be away from their home base for a week or longer.
• LOCAL DRIVERS operate light, medium and heavy trucks. They may be in pick-up and delivery operations, route-sales, or customer delivery. They have more contact with customers than long-haul drivers and usually make many more stops each day.
• SPECIALIZED DRIVERS handle certain types of equipment used in particular trucking operations, both long-distance and local. Examples are double and triple trailers, auto carriers, dry and wet bulk carriers, tank trucks, and heavy specialized equipment. These drivers need extra training to understand and operate their specific trucks.
• DRIVERS OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS also need more extensive training, which is usually provided by their employers. These drivers must know the special characteristics of the loads they haul, how to handle them safely, and what to do in case of emergencies, such as leaking containers. Such drivers are required to take a special written exam on hazardous materials regulations and safety precautions.
• OWNER-OPERATORS, or INDEPENDENT DRIVERS own their equipment and run small businesses. They make up a large segment of the long-haul trucking industry. Often they begin as salaried drivers and then buy their own truck and become independent contractors, hauling freight for one or more companies. Many husband and wife owner-operator teams contract out to the trucking industry.
Many people who like the challenge of operating their own business find the work satisfying and the life-style exciting. Perhaps you will be one of them. Progressive is the place to start on the path.
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