Short Haul CDL Class A Driver Job Description
Short Haul Drivers play a critical role in our organization by ensuring the safe and timely transport of freight using refrigerated tractor-trailers. They are responsible for complying with all Department of Transportation (DOT) and traffic laws while maintaining the highest level of professionalism. Short Haul Drivers typically cover long distances but return to their starting location at the end of each shift, eliminating the need for overnight trips. This position may require working various shifts, including early mornings, late evenings, and weekends. Short Haul Drivers are expected to provide exceptional customer service and may occasionally engage in manual labor for unloading trailers.
Short Haul CDL Class A Driver Essential Functions:
- Schedules time and plans and adjusts routes as necessary in order to successfully complete job tasks as expected while maintaining compliance with Department of Transportation Hours of Service regulations.
- Collects and verifies instructions from appropriate sources. Collect all shipping tenders from drivers mail slot in the logistics department.
- Reads and understands Bills of Lading to determine assignment details.
- Sets and monitors refrigeration systems in order to maintain correct temperature requirements.
- Organizes the assigned paperwork for the day’s deliveries and maintains accurate computer and hardcopy reports and daily logs.
- In accordance with Ginsberg’s Foods policy and procedures, conducts pre-trip and post-trip inspections on the tractor and trailer, and reports any unsafe or defective equipment on the daily DVCR’s.
Additional Short Haul CDL Class A Driver Functions:
- Attend all Transportation Department and safety meetings as required.
- Maintain a clean tractor and trailer at all times.
- Perform daily fueling, fluid checks, and install/remove special equipment like tire chains when necessary.
- Report all accidents, incidents, or safety concerns immediately.
- Assist in loading/unloading freight and breaking down pallets as required or directed.
- Fulfill other duties as assigned.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Current knowledge of laws, rules, and regulations necessary for holding a Class A CDL.
- Safe operation of a tractor-trailer in compliance with DOT regulations and traffic laws.
- Ability to independently hook and unhook trailers.
- Proficiency in operating a hand truck capable of carrying up to 250 pounds.
- Capability to lift and move up to eighty (80) pounds.
- Ability to navigate stairs and work in various weather conditions.
- Capacity to sit for extended periods while driving.
- Certification and operation of company equipment for unloading trailers.
- Capacity to work long hours in accordance with Federal Regulations.
- Effective operation of onboard computer systems in the tractor.
- Reading and understanding paper maps and GPS for navigation.
- Handling difficult or emotional customer situations with prompt responsiveness.
Weekly Work Schedule
- 5 days/8 hours Monday – Friday, start and end times will vary
- 4 days/10 hours Monday – Thursday, start and end times will vary
Short Haul Driver Salary
- $31.25-$37.50/hour based on level of experience.
Education/Experience
High school diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (GED) minimum qualification.
Licenses/Certifications/Special Requirements:
- Valid Driver License with Class A Commercial Driver License (CDL).
- Clean driving record with no major violations in the past 36 months.
- Must pass a DOT physical before employment.
- Must pass a pre-employment drug test.
- Subject to random, reasonable suspicion, and post-accident drug and alcohol tests.