What skills should a truck driver have?

Skills that a truck driver should have include a mixture of hard and soft skills needed to transport goods successfully. Most truck drivers need to develop a diverse set of skills to be successful.

Truck driving skills that are most important are those that are essential qualities needed to operate a large vehicle safely. However, other skills related to personality and performance also play a vital role.

The right set of skills, for instance, can keep you motivated on the road and help you deliver great results. More specifically, It requires both a deep understanding of your truck and driving and loading/unloading procedures, but also specific soft skills like problem-solving and communication.

Technical skills needed by a truck driver include:

• How to shift an 18-speed transmission

• How to double-clutch

• How to use floating gears

• How to use jake brake

• Moving the fifth wheel

• Setting Up For a loading dock

• Scaling a Tandem Axle Trailer

• How to pin up a trailer

• How to set Up axle weights

• Driving in dangerous conditions

• Road safety knowledge

• Backing up

• Mechanical knowledge

• Getting your truck unstuck and other mechanical repairs

Other skills needed to be a truck driver include:

• Safe driving

• Focus

• Responsibility

• Organization

• Time management

• Cleanliness

• Patience

• Remaining calm under pressure

• Navigation