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A trucker’s job is to transport goods—such as foods, medical supplies, livestock, clothing, paper products, and more—from one place to another using a heavy-duty truck or a tractor-trailer. It may look like a simple job for some. But, it is actually a very challenging one, and it takes more than just a basic knowledge of how a truck operates. If you think trucking is all about being knowledgeable and skilled in driving a large vehicle, loading and unloading cargo, and completing the necessary paperwork, well think again. 

So, what does it take to be a great truck driver? Veteran truckers share the top five qualities of outstanding truck drivers. If you are considering this career path, then all the more you have to read on. 

Knowledgeable

The first step towards being an excellent trucker is getting the right education and proper training. You don’t necessarily have to be a college graduate to be one. But going through a driver training program and learning the basics of truck driving can help set you up for success.
It also pays to know more about the vehicle you’re driving, the routes you’re taking, and the varying road laws of each state. 

And before you start a trucking career, be sure you know the different trucking rules and regulations, such as the rules for securing cargo, hours of service (HOS) rules, and electronic logging device rules. Although some companies prepare their drivers through extensive training programs, you are a step ahead if you already know these rules by heart before applying for the job. 

Skilled

One of the most prominent traits displayed by outstanding truck drivers is being skilled. However, one’s skills must not be limited to driving a large vehicle. If you want to thrive in the trucking industry, you must maintain a positive relationship with employers, co-workers, and clients. To accomplish this, you must have people skills. Conducting good conversations, being fair and polite, and staying courteous and cordial are keys to building lasting relationships, raising client satisfaction, and delivering excellent customer service.  

But aside from people skills, you must also have the right mechanical skills because you never know when truck issues will arise. When you’re equipped with these, you save time and prevent costly downtime because you never have to wait for a mechanic to troubleshoot the issues. Stress management skills can also come in handy when random roadblocks pop up or when dealing with difficult co-workers and customers. Meditation, listening to music, and exercise often work best in managing stress. 

Physically and Mentally Fit

A trucking job can be really stressful, and it often requires long hours on the road. So, if you are not physically and mentally fit, you may not be able to stay long in the field. Great truck drivers see and hear clearly, act quickly and decisively, and synthesize different types of information right away to stay safe on the road. Take note that even just a second of distraction can spell the difference between a safer driving situation and an accident waiting to happen. So, before you sit behind the wheel, be sure your mind is focused on the job, and your body is ready to hit the road for hours. 

Responsible

A lot of responsibilities come with a driver’s license. You have to obey the traffic rules and regulations, drive safely at all times, and respect the rights of other road users. And when you’re driving a larger vehicle, such as a heavy-duty truck, the responsibilities are even bigger. Great truck drivers always have driving and road safety in mind. They perform a quick check of crucial vehicle components, including the tires and mirrors, before they hit the road. And they follow safety protocols when they load and unload cargo. They also stay alert and mindful of other road users to prevent accidents and any other untoward incidents — especially important when considering most Americans can't identify all your blind spots. 

Independent

Truck drivers are expected to work alone most of the time. And since they spend hours on the road, they may face unexpected difficulties while driving, such as mechanical issues, traffic jams, protests, and other roadblocks. Experienced truckers share that independence is one prominent trait that truck drivers must possess to navigate their way through these obstacles. They have to make deliveries on schedule, so they need to resolve problems alone when they have to and make the right decisions and choices based on their judgments. 

These are the top qualities that can transform a truck driver from being good to great. If you're looking to be at the top of your game, make sure to keep these qualities in mind. You may also practice and implement other traits, such as patience, reliability, and self-discipline. All these are keys to becoming not just a good truck driver but an outstanding one that will inspire others to be better drivers as well.