Truck Driving Skills: Definition and Examples
The truck driving job is high-paying, allowing you to travel and discover new places. But if you want to drive as a professional truck driver, you must fulfill the requirements. One of them is to obtain a CDL or commercial driving license. The other includes developing your truck driving skills and the skills that support this role.
Truck driving skills are essential for operating large vehicles. The most common ones are keeping long-term focus and good navigation skills. But, communication and planning skills enhance the truck driver's skill set.
This article reveals the skills you need to be a great truck driver. Once you go through them, you will know which areas to improve.
Safe driving
Safe driving is the top priority for a truck driver. Companies look for drivers that adhere to their safety practices and protect the brand's reputation. The training and certification the employer provides give the driver knowledge, while the practice helps them acquire the skills.
Drivers transporting hazardous materials must complete additional tests and a background check. FMCSA provides resources so drivers can recognize their capabilities, while NSC offers driving courses for dangerous situations and safe decision-making.
Navigation
Navigation skills refer to understanding where you are located and how to reach your destination. Modern truck drivers depend on GPS devices for navigation. However, the technology can fail at certain times, so drivers should know how to navigate through the roads and get to the dropping point.
Long term focus
Being a truck driver requires concentration and remaining vigilant to ensure road safety. The driver should keep their focus on night driving and traffic jams. Every diver should come up with a strategy to provide focus. Some helpful practices are eliminating distractions and planning the route.
Responsibility
A good truck driver will keep up to date with the latest news to be informed about any weather conditions or road hazards that could cause a delay. Also, they are responsible for regular maintenance and keeping the vehicle in good condition. Taking plenty of food, drinks, and mandatory rests are other key responsibilities of a truck driver.
Discipline
The truck driver needs to complete the tasks even when they lack the motivation to do so. Good discipline helps them follow the safety regulations, stick to the defined schedule, and avoid delays.
Organization skills
The trucking companies require drivers to fill logs with important information. Drivers need to provide such info in an organized manner. Information about the stops, refueling, maintenance checks, and resting should be provided.
Mechanical skills
A truck driver should know how to perform routine checks and essential maintenance to ensure the vehicle is in perfect condition. Also, they need to tackle any issues that could arise in the middle of the journey.
Cleanliness
A clean truck leaves a good impression of a truck driver. This shows that they're a responsible and respectful employee. Removing trash and keeping personal items away from sight are simple ways to improve the cleanliness of your truck.
How to improve the truck driving skills
Truck drivers can improve their skills formally and informally. Practicing driving gives you a sense of the road, even if you aren't driving a truck. Learning from experienced truck drivers can also help you enhance your skill set. Have a conversation with a truck driver you know, and you will be surprised by how much you can learn this way. They can share many valuable tips and tricks to guide your driving career.
Checking the driving rules is also essential. The Commercial Motor Vehicle regulations, traffic laws, and Hours of Service rules provide you with all you need.