Light Truck Drivers
Drive a light vehicle, such as a truck or van, with a capacity of less than 26,001 pounds Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), primarily to pick up merchandise or packages from a distribution center and deliver. May load and unload vehicle.
Common Job Titles
- Delivery Driver
- Driver
- Package Car Driver
- Truck Driver
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onOperate light trucks and vans under 26,001 pounds GVW on varied routes following traffic laws and safety regulations.Developing
- Hands-onHandle merchandise and packages during loading and unloading using proper lifting techniques and material handling equipment.Developing
- KnowledgeExplain delivery schedules and route requirements by reading and interpreting work orders, manifests, and shipping documentation.Developing
- Hands-onPerform pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections to ensure equipment safety and regulatory compliance.Developing
- KnowledgeApply time management strategies to meet delivery deadlines while navigating traffic conditions and customer availability.Developing
- MindsetEngage with customers during delivery interactions demonstrating courtesy and service orientation.Developing
- KnowledgeCompute delivery quantities and verify shipment accuracy using basic mathematics and recordkeeping procedures.Developing
- Hands-onOperate material handling equipment such as forklifts and jacks to facilitate efficient loading and unloading operations.Developing
- KnowledgeApply GPS and routing technology to navigate efficiently and locate delivery addresses.Developing
- Hands-onExecute basic vehicle maintenance tasks including fluid checks and minor repairs to maintain vehicle readiness.Developing
- KnowledgeDemonstrate knowledge of transportation regulations and public safety requirements when operating commercial vehicles in urban and rural environments.Developing
- MindsetRespond to customer concerns and delivery issues by communicating effectively with supervisors and resolving problems promptly.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Light Truck Drivers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
994,410
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $29,580. 25th percentile: U.S. $36,670. 50th percentile: U.S. $44,140. 75th percentile: U.S. $52,460. 90th percentile: U.S. $79,630. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $29,580 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $79,630 |
| Workers on average earn | $47,950 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- English Language3.8/5
- Transportation3.4/5
- Customer and Personal Service3.4/5
- Public Safety and Security2.9/5
- Administrative2.6/5
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
Technology Skills
- Automatic routing software
- Computerized inventory tracking software
- Eko
- FreightDATA
- IBM Domino
- Internet browser software
- Inventory management systems
- Package location and tracking software
Tools & Equipment
- Electronic clipboards
- Forklifts
- Global positioning system GPS receivers
- Jacks
- Large goods vehicles LGV
- Light trucks less than 3 tons
- Personal computers
- Pickup trucks