The heavy-duty cargo or freight which requires vigilance during the loading and unloading from the point of pickup to the point of destination is processed and carried out by the over-the-road truck driver. The job usually requires long distances of travel and tedious waiting hours of loading and unloading. The flip side of the coin is that the over-the-road truck drivers are paid very handsome wages. The longer distance trips provide the drivers with considerably exceptional wages.There are many lawful regulations for long-distance traveling to adequately provide the OTR truck drivers with plenty of time to take rest in between the trips. Usually, after driving continuously for 11 hours, the drivers park their trucks and take a rest in the berth of the power unit. The berth includes a bed, kitchen appliances, and a small fridge along with a microwave. It is mandatory to rest for seven hours before getting on the road again.
Usually, after 8 hours of driving, the drivers can take a 30-minute break at the truck stops on the side of highways. During this break, the OTR drivers can refresh themselves with food and shower. The truckers can also use this time window to refuel their power unit's engine. The truck stops have all the basic provisions for the truckers so that they don't have to take a detour from the lane.
What is the job of an OTR truck driver?
The principal and foremost task to begin a career as an OTR truck driver is to obtain a Class A Commercial Driver's license. The OTR truck drivers carry many responsibilities while performing their duties on the road. The drivers are required to follow on-road regulations and lay complete adherence to the protection of the cargo.
The OTR truck drivers are required to reach well on time and completely inspect the truck before getting on the road. The OTR drivers are expected to deliver their loads safely at the unloading destination well on time.
The Class A Commercial Driver's license holders are paid on a miles coverage basis. The pay-per-mile system supports the OTR truck drivers in receiving decent salaries for their jobs. The drivers are responsible for logging all the relevant information of the pickup, delivery, paperwork of cargo, and resting times on the database of their respective logistic companies.
Qualification for working as an OTR truck driver:
- Class A Commercial Driver's license.
- Relevant driving skills.
- Compliance with the federal laws and regulations of FMCSA.
- Basic High School Certificate or Diploma.
- At least 21 years of age.
- No DUI or DWI convictions in the past seven years.
- Undertaking and passing every drug test required for employment.
- Medical certification.
Benefits of Over the Road Trucking:
- Extensive wages.
- Complete financial security of the driver and family.
- Complete medical, dental and life insurance.
- 401(k) Retirement savings plan.
- The drivers are entitled to paid vacations.