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53-3032.00 · Task explorer

Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers: reported tasks and exploration worksheet

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.

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Read the task inventory

This source lists 29 tasks, including 21 marked Core and 8 marked Supplemental. Labels and dates are retained below. Employers can combine or divide these responsibilities differently; explore the task itself before assuming it belongs in every version of the role.

Task source dates: 08/2022.

29 tasks shown

Core · Task 20693 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Check all load-related documentation for completeness and accuracy.

Core · Task 20692 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Inspect loads to ensure that cargo is secure.

Core · Task 10636 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Check vehicles to ensure that mechanical, safety, and emergency equipment is in good working order.

Core · Task 10651 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Crank trailer landing gear up or down to safely secure vehicles.

Core · Task 10638 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Obtain receipts or signatures for delivered goods and collect payment for services when required.

Core · Task 10637 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Maintain logs of working hours or of vehicle service or repair status, following applicable state and federal regulations.

Core · Task 10643 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Read bills of lading to determine assignment details.

Core · Task 10644 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Report vehicle defects, accidents, traffic violations, or damage to the vehicles.

Core · Task 10653 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Perform basic vehicle maintenance tasks, such as adding oil, fuel, or radiator fluid, performing minor repairs, or washing trucks.

Core · Task 10646 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Couple or uncouple trailers by changing trailer jack positions, connecting or disconnecting air or electrical lines, or manipulating fifth-wheel locks.

Core · Task 10640 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Maneuver trucks into loading or unloading positions, following signals from loading crew and checking that vehicle and loading equipment are properly positioned.

Core · Task 10647 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Collect delivery instructions from appropriate sources, verifying instructions and routes.

Core · Task 10641 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Drive trucks with capacities greater than 13 tons, including tractor-trailer combinations, to transport and deliver products, livestock, or other materials.

Core · Task 10645 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Read and interpret maps to determine vehicle routes.

Core · Task 10650 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Check conditions of trailers after contents have been unloaded to ensure that there has been no damage.

Core · Task 20695 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Operate equipment, such as truck cab computers, CB radios, phones, or global positioning systems (GPS) equipment to exchange necessary information with bases, supervisors, or other drivers.

Core · Task 20694 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Drive trucks to weigh stations before and after loading and along routes in compliance with state regulations.

Core · Task 20696 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Load or unload trucks or help others with loading or unloading, using special loading-related equipment or other equipment as necessary.

Core · Task 19923 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Plan or adjust routes based on changing conditions, using computer equipment, global positioning systems (GPS) equipment, or other navigation devices, to minimize fuel consumption and carbon emissions.

Core · Task 10662 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Perform emergency roadside repairs, such as changing tires or installing light bulbs, tire chains, or spark plugs.

Core · Task 10656 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Remove debris from loaded trailers.

Supplemental · Task 10642 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Secure cargo for transport, using ropes, blocks, chain, binders, or covers.

Supplemental · Task 10635 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Follow appropriate safety procedures for transporting dangerous goods.

Supplemental · Task 10655 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Inventory and inspect goods to be moved to determine quantities and conditions.

Supplemental · Task 10658 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Follow special cargo-related procedures, such as checking refrigeration systems for frozen foods or providing food or water for livestock.

Supplemental · Task 10660 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Install or remove special equipment, such as tire chains, grader blades, plow blades, or sanders.

Supplemental · Task 20697 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Wrap and secure goods using pads, packing paper, containers, or straps.

Supplemental · Task 19922 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Operate idle reduction systems or auxiliary power systems to generate power from alternative sources, such as fuel cells, to reduce idling time, to heat or cool truck cabins, or to provide power for other equipment.

Supplemental · Task 10659 · 08/2022 · Incumbent

Give directions to laborers who are packing goods and moving them onto trailers.

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Source and practice material

Occupational context uses the O*NET® 31.0 Database from the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration, under CC BY 4.0. View the occupation.

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