Starting an auto transport driver career is an interesting endeavor, yet auto transport drivers take on certain challenges. Hitting the road for long hours sounds alluring for driving addicts and people who love adventure, travel, and discovering new places. Still, these lucrative opportunities in the American auto shipping industry come at a cost.
This article sheds some light on the typical day of an auto transport driver from the early morning to the late evening, highlighting the perks of being an auto transport driver and the challenges and responsibilities they undertake.
Auto transport drivers’ daily routines
The typical day of an auto transport driver starts by checking for the day’s schedules. Auto transport drivers may choose to start working early in the morning depending on the job requirements and the given times of pick-ups and deliveries. In this case, they typically wake up between 4 a.m. and 6 a.m. since working early ensures they make their deliveries on time.
Moreover, they get up early to check for the loads and prepare them for hauling before they start driving on the road. For most drivers, the morning’s early hours are the preferable driving times for avoiding traffic.
Next, auto transport drivers carry out some tasks before hitting the road, including checking the weather conditions in their location and where they are heading. They also check for route availability and sometimes use Google Maps to find shorter, more convenient paths.
Furthermore, auto transport drivers are also responsible for inspecting the truck’s condition before driving, often checking the tire pressure and fluid leaks and ensuring the brakes work properly. Then, they ensure the loads are well secured and tied to the carrier. Finally, they fuel up their trucks for the day’s trip.
At this point, the carrier is ready to drive on. During the trip, carrier drivers stay in touch with their supervisors at the auto transport company to update them about the shipment status, and they also contact the administration if something unexpected arises during transport.
The most significant part of auto transport driver jobs is their collaboration. While on the road, the driver might receive a call from a co-worker to give them a lift or help them solve an issue.
Eventually, car carrier drivers spend the rest of their day on the road until their shift is finished. By then, they take a break or stop at a rest area providing complete truck drivers facilities, like bathrooms, restaurants, and sleeping units.
The perks of being an auto transport driver
Auto transport drivers enjoy several advantages. This type of job is especially suitable for people who love traveling, driving, and discovering new places, as auto transport drivers can explore different parts of the country while they haul loads across multiple states.
Moreover, auto transport driver jobs pay reasonably, offering considerable profit margins for independent truckers. Ultimately, the more they adhere to consistent schedules, the more stable income they earn.
In addition, auto transport drivers enjoy a sense of freedom, and they can control their working hours as long as they can deliver the loads on time. Eventually, the flexibility, good pay, and freedom make auto transport driver jobs tempting for some.
Challenges of being an auto transport driver
Aside from the advantages they enjoy, auto transport drivers also face some challenges in return. The first challenge is driving for extended periods, which can cause muscle tension and severe fatigue over time.
For this reason, the U.S. Department of Transportation regulates the allowed driver hours, obliging drivers to drive 11 hours over 14 working hours. Drivers should also take a break for half an hour after every eight hours of driving. These rules are set to ensure the safety of truck drivers and other drivers on the road.
In addition, auto transport drivers are forced to spend much time away from their homes and families. However, drivers earn a good income that allows them to spend quality time with their loved ones after work.
Additionally, navigating difficult areas and driving under severe weather conditions adds other challenges for auto transport drivers. Though experienced drivers can handle difficult situations, they can still be overwhelming for some.
Responsibilities
Auto transport drivers are responsible for keeping the loads safe and secure from the moment they are loaded into the carrier until they reach their destination. They are also responsible for inspecting the loaded vehicles at pick-up and delivery times. In addition, they should maintain the truck, regularly check for any technical problems, and keep it clean. Most importantly, auto transport drivers are expected to follow safety rules and regulations for operating large vehicles set by the USDOT.
Tempus Logix is an elite auto shipping company based in California that ships vehicles nationwide. The company works with more than 25,000 carrier drivers across the United States.
In short, car carrier drivers lead a somewhat busy life, spending a lot of time on the road, discovering different places, and meeting new people. Though the job of an auto transport driver pays well, drivers often sacrifice quality family time to perform their jobs properly.