Three of the Most Common Shipping Jobs

Shipping work is a crucial component of the US economy, as professionals working in this sector are responsible for transporting goods across the country and facilitating trade between businesses. They also help to bolster the economy by ensuring goods are delivered on time and in good condition, which allows businesses to operate efficiently and effectively. This article is going to take a look at three of the most common shipping jobs drivers regularly carry out every day across the country.

Dry Van Driving

A dry van driver is responsible for hauling standard freight, such as consumer goods, from one location to another. The cargo is typically loaded onto a trailer and does not require refrigeration or specialized handling. Dry van driving can be a good career option for those who enjoy long-distance driving and shipping work in general and are comfortable spending extended periods of time completing their shipping jobs. Dry van drivers are typically responsible for picking up their loads from distribution centers, warehouses, or manufacturing plants and transporting them to their destination, which could be across the state or across the country.

Dry van drivers are often paid by the mile, and the amount they earn can vary depending on their experience, the distance they are driving, and the company they are working for. In addition to driving the truck, dry van drivers are responsible for maintaining their vehicles, keeping track of their hours of service, and ensuring that their cargo is secure and properly loaded.

Tanker Truck Driving

Tanker trucks are used to transport liquids or gasses, such as petroleum products, chemicals, or food-grade products like milk or juice. Tanker truck drivers require specialized training and certification to operate their vehicles safely, as driving a tanker truck requires a different set of skills and knowledge than driving a dry van or flatbed truck. Tanker truck drivers must be aware of the weight distribution of their cargo and the potential for sloshing or shifting of the liquid or gas during transportation.

As well as the technical skills required for driving a tanker truck, drivers must also be aware of safety regulations and protocols to prevent accidents or spills. Tanker truck drivers must also be knowledgeable about hazardous materials regulations and comply with strict safety procedures to ensure the safe transportation of their cargo.

Refrigerated Truck Driving

Another popular type of shipping work is refrigerated truck driving, also known as “reefer” driving. Reefer trucks are equipped with a refrigeration unit that allows for the transportation of perishable goods, such as fresh produce, dairy products, and frozen foods.

Refrigerated truck drivers are responsible for monitoring the temperature of their cargo during transportation to ensure that it stays within a specific temperature range. They may also be responsible for loading and unloading their cargo and ensuring that it is appropriately secured and protected from damage.

Reefer truck driving can be a challenging and rewarding career option for those who are interested in the transportation of perishable goods. Drivers must be able to work independently and manage their time effectively to meet delivery deadlines while ensuring the safety and quality of their cargo. Reefer truck drivers are often paid a premium rate due to the specialized nature of their work and the need for strict temperature control during transportation.