Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers
Drive a tractor-trailer combination or a truck with a capacity of at least 26,001 pounds Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW). May be required to unload truck. Requires commercial drivers' license. Includes tow truck drivers.
Common Job Titles
- Driver
- Line Haul Driver
- Over the Road Driver (OTR Driver)
- Truck Driver
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onOperate tractor-trailer combinations and heavy trucks exceeding 26,001 pounds GVW on highways and varied road conditions, adhering to federal and state transportation regulations.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate vehicle equipment and structural integrity during pre-trip and post-trip inspections, ensuring compliance with DOT safety standards.Proficient
- Hands-onCoordinate vehicle maneuvering through traffic, loading docks, and tight spaces using spatial awareness and mirror adjustments to prevent accidents.Proficient
- KnowledgeApply time management strategies for route planning and delivery schedules under hours-of-service regulations and customer delivery windows.Developing
- Hands-onPerform cargo loading, securing, and unloading operations using forklifts, handtrucks, and cargo hoists while following weight distribution protocols.Developing
- KnowledgeAnalyze mechanical malfunctions and equipment failures during operations to determine appropriate troubleshooting responses and roadside repair needs.Developing
- Hands-onExecute preventive maintenance and minor mechanical repairs on hydraulic systems, air compressors, and vehicle components following manufacturer specifications.Developing
- KnowledgeInterpret delivery documentation, bills of lading, and GPS routing systems to verify cargo details and navigate efficiently to multiple destinations.Developing
- MindsetEngage with customers, dispatchers, and warehouse personnel maintaining professionalism during delivery coordination and service inquiries.Developing
- KnowledgeApply federal transportation safety regulations and hazardous material protocols when transporting diverse cargo types across state lines.Developing
- KnowledgeDistinguish road hazards, weather conditions, and traffic patterns to make real-time adjustments ensuring safe vehicle operation.Developing
- Hands-onOperate electronic logging devices, GPS systems, and on-board computers to document hours of service and communicate status updates with dispatch.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
2,070,480
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $38,640. 25th percentile: U.S. $47,230. 50th percentile: U.S. $57,440. 75th percentile: U.S. $65,520. 90th percentile: U.S. $78,800. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $38,640 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $78,800 |
| Workers on average earn | $58,400 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Transportation4.0/5
- Public Safety and Security3.9/5
- Customer and Personal Service3.7/5
- English Language3.6/5
- Law and Government3.0/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft Windows
- Microsoft Word
- SAP software
Technology Skills
- 3M Post-it App
- ADP ezLaborManager
- ALK Technologies PC*Miler
- Computerized inventory tracking software
- Eko
- Evernote
- Fog Line Software Truckn Pro
- Inventory tracking software
Tools & Equipment
- 4-ranger tower trucks
- Air compressors
- Blocks and tackle
- Boom trucks
- Cargo hoists
- Cell phones
- Dump trucks
- Electric handtrucks