What Is The Difference between A Truck Driver And A Long Haul Truck Driver?

The main difference between a truck driver and a long haul truck driver is their specific roles and responsibilities in the trucking industry.

A truck driver is a general term that refers to anyone who drives a truck for commercial purposes. Truck drivers have a wide range of tasks and responsibilities, such as delivering goods locally, picking up and dropping off passengers, and performing other duties as needed. Truck drivers can work for a variety of companies, including freight companies, delivery service companies, and construction companies.

Long-haul truck drivers, on the other hand, specialise in driving trucks over long distances, usually on motorways and interstates. Their primary duty is to transport goods from one location to another, usually between cities or states. Long-haul truck drivers are usually required to adhere to strict schedules and deadlines and may be on the road for long periods of time.

In addition to differences in roles and responsibilities, long-haul truck drivers may require additional training or certification, depending on the employer or the specific requirements of the goods being transported. For example, some long-haul truck drivers may need to obtain a hazardous materials endorsement on their commercial driver's licence (CDL) if hazardous or harmful substances are being transported.

Long haul truck drivers are generally higher than truck drivers in terms of pay and driving freedom, but long haul truck drivers have a longer cycle away from home than truck drivers, who are able to go home after their shift, making truck drivers a more suitable position for those who need to get home.