A truck or lorry is usually a large motor vehicle intended to transport goods. Trucks differ significantly in size, power, configuration, and speed. Smaller types can even be mechanically similar to certain cars.
There are three classes of truck in the United States: the class b, which are designed for light loads; the class c, which are for medium-duty loads; and the class d, which are for heavy loads. Trucks can be single driver operations, or they can be operated by more than one driver. Some trucks come with optional equipment such as brake lights, turn signals, or emergency brakes. Many trucks come with their own mechanics or require only a licensed mechanic to drive.
Driving a straight truck is one of the most difficult jobs in the trucking industry. Truck drivers must maneuver large vehicles that have limited visibility and cannot be trusted to perform in emergencies. Furthermore, straight trucks travel at faster speeds than most passenger vehicles. Furthermore, driving a straight truck involves much more physical effort than driving a four-wheel drive vehicle. Although truck drivers perform a dangerous job, many companies still want to hire them because of their ability to move goods and transport people in large quantities.
It is important for truck drivers to have a good driving record. Without a valid license, trucking companies will not allow them to operate. However, truck drivers do have the option of finding temporary jobs to help pay for the cost of licensing. These temporary positions may not always offer benefits, however, and additional education may be required before permanent employment can be found.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, truck drivers make up approximately 9% of the entire American trucking industry. The typical truck driver makes between fifteen and forty dollars an hour. Many truck drivers begin their careers as low-skilled or entry-level employees and throughout their career experience gain the skills needed to advance to other higher-paying positions. As technology advances, trucking companies are expected to expand their truck fleets both to meet their expanding customer base and to reduce fuel costs.
Drivers often begin their careers hauling goods on large trucks. Once a driver begins to gain experience, however, they can consider turning truck stops into full-time careers. Some drivers decide to become mechanics or office personnel. Others choose to become sales or service personnel. Still others enjoy the freedom of driving trucks while working on the side. Truck drivers can find a variety of career possibilities available to them through trucking recruitment agencies.