Top 12 Commercial Driver Skills to Put on Your Resume
In the competitive world of commercial driving, standing out to potential employers requires showcasing a well-rounded set of skills on your resume. Highlighting the top commercial driver skills not only demonstrates your proficiency behind the wheel but also your commitment to safety, efficiency, and reliability in meeting the demands of the job.
Commercial Driver Skills
- GPS Navigation
- ELD Operation (Electronic Logging Devices)
- HAZMAT Handling
- Defensive Driving
- Pre-Trip Inspection
- Air Brake Systems
- Freight Securement
- Smith System (Driving technique)
- DOT Regulations
- Reefer Monitoring (Refrigerated units)
- Load Distribution
- CDL Endorsements
1. GPS Navigation
GPS Navigation for a commercial driver is a digital tool that provides real-time, satellite-based directions and route planning to assist in efficiently navigating roads, managing schedules, and complying with transportation regulations.
Why It's Important
GPS navigation is crucial for commercial drivers as it ensures efficient route planning for timely deliveries, helps avoid traffic and road closures, and enhances safety by providing real-time updates and directions.
How to Improve GPS Navigation Skills
Improving GPS navigation for commercial drivers involves enhancing accuracy, route optimization, and incorporating real-time data. Here are concise strategies:
Use Advanced GPS Units: Opt for GPS devices designed for commercial use, offering detailed maps, traffic updates, and route customization. Garmin and Rand McNally specialize in commercial GPS technology.
Integrate Real-Time Traffic Updates: Utilize apps like Waze or Google Maps for live traffic conditions, helping avoid delays and find the fastest routes.
Leverage Telematics: Implement telematics systems that combine GPS with on-board diagnostics to monitor vehicle performance and optimize routes. Geotab provides comprehensive telematics solutions.
Regularly Update Maps and Software: Ensure your GPS device or app is up-to-date to reflect the latest road changes and improvements.
Utilize Route Optimization Software: Tools like Route4Me or OptimoRoute can plan efficient routes considering multiple stops, delivery windows, and vehicle capacity.
Incorporate Customer Feedback: Regularly seek and incorporate feedback from drivers on the accuracy and efficiency of the routes provided.
By integrating these strategies, commercial drivers can significantly improve their navigation experience, ensuring timely deliveries and optimizing their routes.
How to Display GPS Navigation Skills on Your Resume
2. ELD Operation (Electronic Logging Devices)
ELD (Electronic Logging Device) operation for a commercial driver involves using a federally mandated device that automatically records driving hours and duty status, ensuring compliance with Hours of Service (HOS) regulations to improve safety and prevent fatigue.
Why It's Important
ELD operation is important for commercial drivers because it ensures compliance with Hours of Service regulations, improves road safety by preventing driver fatigue, and streamlines record-keeping for driver activity, thus enhancing efficiency and accountability in the transportation industry.
How to Improve ELD Operation (Electronic Logging Devices) Skills
Improving ELD (Electronic Logging Devices) operation for commercial drivers involves enhancing accuracy, compliance, and efficiency. Here are concise strategies:
Regular Updates and Maintenance: Ensure your ELD software and firmware are up-to-date to improve functionality and compliance. FMCSA's ELD page provides guidelines and updates.
Adequate Training: Invest in comprehensive training for drivers and administrative staff on using ELDs effectively. The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) offers resources and training programs.
Utilize Support and Resources: Leverage the ELD manufacturer’s customer support and online resources for troubleshooting and questions to minimize downtime.
Ensure Accurate Record Keeping: Regularly review ELD records for accuracy and completeness. Inaccuracies can lead to compliance issues. The FMCSA guide on ELDs offers insights on maintaining accurate logs.
Opt for User-Friendly Devices: Choose ELDs with intuitive interfaces and reliable connectivity to reduce technical issues and improve user satisfaction.
Regular Feedback Loop: Create a feedback mechanism where drivers can report issues or suggest improvements regarding ELD usage.
By focusing on these areas, commercial drivers can enhance the operation of their Electronic Logging Devices, ensuring compliance, efficiency, and safety on the roads.
How to Display ELD Operation (Electronic Logging Devices) Skills on Your Resume
3. HAZMAT Handling
HAZMAT handling for a Commercial Driver involves the safe and compliant transportation of hazardous materials, requiring special training, certification, and adherence to strict regulations to prevent accidents or environmental damage.
Why It's Important
HAZMAT handling is crucial for a Commercial Driver to ensure the safe transportation of hazardous materials, prevent accidents, and protect public health, the environment, and property from potential hazardous spills or exposures.
How to Improve HAZMAT Handling Skills
Improving HAZMAT handling for a commercial driver involves several key actions focused on safety, compliance, and ongoing education:
Stay Updated on Regulations: Regularly review and stay current with HAZMAT regulations provided by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) to ensure compliance.
Complete Required Training: Undergo mandatory HAZMAT training as per Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) guidelines, focusing on handling, transportation, and emergency response.
Use Proper Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear appropriate PPE as recommended by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to minimize exposure risks.
Regular Vehicle Inspections: Conduct thorough pre-trip and post-trip inspections of your vehicle to identify any potential issues that could compromise the safe transportation of hazardous materials.
Emergency Preparedness: Be familiar with emergency procedures and have access to emergency response information that could be needed in the event of an incident.
Secure Cargo Properly: Ensure that all hazardous materials are securely loaded and stowed in accordance with FMCSA cargo securement standards.
By focusing on these areas, commercial drivers can significantly improve the safety and efficiency of HAZMAT transportation.
How to Display HAZMAT Handling Skills on Your Resume
4. Defensive Driving
Defensive driving for a commercial driver involves operating a vehicle with the aim to reduce the risk of accidents by anticipating dangerous situations, despite adverse conditions or the actions of others. It includes maintaining awareness, applying safe driving techniques, and adhering to regulations to protect oneself and other road users.
Why It's Important
Defensive driving is crucial for commercial drivers as it enhances safety by anticipating potential hazards, minimizing risks of accidents, and ensuring the well-being of the driver, cargo, and other road users, leading to a more reliable and efficient transportation service.
How to Improve Defensive Driving Skills
Improving defensive driving, especially for a commercial driver, involves a focus on anticipation, awareness, and safe practices. Here are short, concise tips with further reading links for an in-depth understanding:
Stay Alert and Aware: Constantly scan the road for potential hazards. Anticipate the actions of other drivers and pedestrians. Stay alert, stay alive.
Maintain Safe Following Distance: Keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead to allow adequate time for response. Following distance tips.
Adapt to Weather and Traffic Conditions: Adjust your speed and driving style according to weather and traffic. For weather-specific tips, refer to adverse weather conditions.
Use Mirrors and Signals: Regularly check mirrors and use signals well in advance to communicate your intentions. For signaling tips, see CMV driving tips - signaling.
Focus on the Drive: Avoid distractions and focus solely on the task of driving. The dangers of distracted driving are well documented.
Understand Vehicle Dynamics: Know your vehicle's limits, such as braking distance and load dynamics. For more on this, visit CMV weight considerations.
Emergency Preparedness: Be prepared for emergencies by knowing evacuation routes, emergency procedures, and having a well-maintained vehicle. Emergency preparedness for truckers.
Continuous Education: Stay updated with the latest safety regulations and attend defensive driving courses regularly. FMCSA safety and security.
By focusing on these areas, commercial drivers can significantly improve their defensive driving skills, contributing to safer roadways for everyone.
How to Display Defensive Driving Skills on Your Resume
5. Pre-Trip Inspection
A Pre-Trip Inspection is a mandatory, thorough check that a commercial driver must perform on their vehicle before starting a trip, to ensure all parts and systems (such as brakes, tires, lights, and steering) are in safe and proper working condition, in compliance with safety regulations.
Why It's Important
A Pre-Trip Inspection is crucial for a Commercial Driver as it ensures vehicle safety, prevents breakdowns, and complies with legal requirements, ultimately safeguarding the driver, cargo, and other road users.
How to Improve Pre-Trip Inspection Skills
Improving your Pre-Trip Inspection skills as a commercial driver involves a thorough and systematic approach to ensure your vehicle is safe and compliant. Here are concise steps with valuable resources for further guidance:
Understand the Requirements: Familiarize yourself with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations regarding pre-trip inspections. FMCSA Regulations
Use a Checklist: Employ a detailed checklist that covers all components that must be inspected, such as brakes, lights, tires, steering mechanism, and more. This ensures you don’t overlook any critical areas. Sample Checklist (PDF)
Practice Regularly: Regular practice helps you become more efficient and confident in performing the inspection. Time yourself to ensure you're thorough yet efficient.
Stay Updated: Regulations and best practices can change. Attend refresher courses and stay informed through reputable sources. Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA)
Visual and Hands-On Inspection: Always perform both visual checks and hands-on inspection for components like brakes, coupling devices, and emergency equipment.
Report and Address Issues: Immediately report any defects or issues found during the inspection. Ensuring these are fixed before you drive is critical for safety.
Leverage Technology: Use mobile apps designed for pre-trip inspections that offer guided checklists and reporting features. Fleetio Go - Fleet Management
Seek Feedback: Occasionally, have a supervisor or experienced driver observe your inspection to provide feedback and tips for improvement.
By incorporating these steps and regularly reviewing resources, you can enhance your Pre-Trip Inspection process, contributing to safer driving operations.
How to Display Pre-Trip Inspection Skills on Your Resume
6. Air Brake Systems
Air brake systems in commercial vehicles use compressed air to operate the brakes. When the driver presses the brake pedal, air pressure is applied to the brake pads or shoes, creating friction to slow down or stop the vehicle. This system allows for reliable and effective braking performance in heavy-duty vehicles like trucks and buses.
Why It's Important
Air brake systems are crucial for commercial drivers because they provide reliable and powerful stopping capability for heavy vehicles, ensuring safety and control under various driving conditions.
How to Improve Air Brake Systems Skills
Improving air brake systems in commercial vehicles involves regular maintenance and understanding the system's operation. Here are concise tips:
Routine Checks: Regularly inspect air brake components, including hoses, valves, and brake chambers, for any signs of wear or damage. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) provides guidelines on inspection, repair, and maintenance.
Drain Air Tanks: Daily drain the air tanks to remove moisture and prevent corrosion and freezing. Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) offers resources on proper maintenance practices.
Adjust Brakes: Ensure brakes are correctly adjusted. Automatic slack adjusters can help maintain the adjustment, but manual checks are vital. The Technology & Maintenance Council (TMC) provides guidelines on brake adjustment and maintenance.
Use High-Quality Parts: When replacing parts, opt for high-quality, durable components that meet or exceed OEM specifications. This ensures longer life and better performance of the air brake system.
Air Dryer Maintenance: Maintain the air dryer, regularly replacing the desiccant cartridge to ensure moisture is effectively removed from the air system. This helps prevent freezing in cold weather and improves brake performance.
Education: Stay informed on the latest air brake technologies and maintenance techniques. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) offers resources and updates on commercial vehicle safety standards.
By following these tips and staying proactive about maintenance and education, commercial drivers can significantly improve the performance and safety of their air brake systems.
How to Display Air Brake Systems Skills on Your Resume
7. Freight Securement
Freight securement refers to the process and methods used by commercial drivers to safely fasten cargo onto a vehicle or trailer to prevent it from shifting, falling, or causing an accident during transportation.
Why It's Important
Freight securement is crucial for a Commercial Driver to ensure the safety of the cargo, prevent accidents caused by shifting or falling loads, and comply with legal regulations, thereby protecting the driver, the public, and the integrity of the goods being transported.
How to Improve Freight Securement Skills
Improving freight securement is crucial for safety and compliance in commercial driving. Here are concise steps to enhance freight securement:
Understand Regulations: Familiarize yourself with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Cargo Securement Rules.
Use Appropriate Equipment: Select the right type of tie-downs and anchors for your cargo, ensuring they meet required standards.
Regular Checks: Conduct regular checks before, during, and after trips to ensure cargo hasn't shifted or loosened. Pre-Trip Inspection Guide can be a helpful tool.
Proper Loading: Load cargo evenly and securely to prevent shifts. Use Load Securement Techniques for guidance.
Stay Updated: Keep abreast of any updates or changes in securement regulations by visiting the FMCSA website.
By adhering to regulations, using the right equipment, performing regular checks, and ensuring proper loading, commercial drivers can significantly improve freight securement.
How to Display Freight Securement Skills on Your Resume
8. Smith System (Driving technique)
The Smith System is a driving technique designed to reduce collisions and enhance driving safety for commercial drivers. It consists of five key principles: 1) Aim High in Steering, 2) Get the Big Picture, 3) Keep Your Eyes Moving, 4) Leave Yourself an Out, and 5) Make Sure They See You. These principles focus on maintaining proper following distance, situational awareness, and proactive driving strategies to prevent accidents.
Why It's Important
The Smith System is important for commercial drivers because it enhances road safety by teaching them proactive driving techniques, reducing the likelihood of accidents, and promoting efficient vehicle operation, ultimately leading to safer travel and lower operational costs.
How to Improve Smith System (Driving technique) Skills
To enhance the Smith System for commercial drivers, focus on these key strategies:
Expand Situational Awareness: Regularly practice scanning techniques to better anticipate potential hazards. FMCSA offers resources for understanding road conditions and behaviors.
Adaptive Training: Customize Smith System principles to address specific challenges faced in commercial driving. Utilize resources from Professional Truck Driver Institute (PTDI) for tailored training programs.
Technology Integration: Incorporate advanced driving aids and telematics to reinforce Smith System principles. Explore options through National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Continuous Education: Engage in ongoing learning and refresher courses on the Smith System and defensive driving techniques. The National Safety Council (NSC) offers relevant courses and materials.
Peer Learning: Encourage discussions and knowledge sharing among peers regarding experiences and best practices through forums and groups, such as those found on TruckingTruth.
Focusing on these aspects can significantly improve the effectiveness of the Smith System for commercial drivers, enhancing road safety for all users.
How to Display Smith System (Driving technique) Skills on Your Resume
9. DOT Regulations
DOT regulations, in regards to a Commercial Driver, refer to the set of federal rules established by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) governing the safety operations, vehicle maintenance, driver qualifications, hours of service, and substance testing for commercial motor vehicle drivers to ensure public safety on the roads.
Why It's Important
DOT regulations are important for a Commercial Driver because they ensure safety on the roads by enforcing standards for vehicle maintenance, driver hours, substance testing, and qualifications, thereby protecting drivers, cargo, and the public.
How to Improve DOT Regulations Skills
Improving DOT Regulations for Commercial Drivers can be approached by focusing on these key areas:
Enhanced Training Standards: Implement more rigorous and comprehensive training programs that cover safety, emergency response, and the latest driving technologies. FMCSA Training Provider Registry offers a starting point for standardized training.
Flexible Hours of Service (HOS): Modify HOS rules to better reflect the realities of driving conditions and allow drivers more flexibility while maintaining safety. The FMCSA's HOS page provides current regulations which could be adapted to be more flexible.
Mental Health and Well-being Support: Incorporate mandatory mental health checks and support systems for drivers. Providing resources like the FMCSA's National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners is a step towards recognizing the importance of driver health beyond physical.
Streamlined Reporting and Feedback Systems: Develop an efficient, user-friendly platform for drivers to report safety concerns or regulatory suggestions directly to the DOT. This encourages a proactive approach to safety and regulation improvements.
Advanced Safety Technology Requirements: Mandate the use of advanced safety technologies in commercial vehicles, such as automatic emergency braking systems and electronic logging devices, to enhance road safety. Information on currently required technologies can be found on the FMCSA's Electronic Logging Devices page.
Regular Regulatory Reviews: Establish a regular review process for DOT regulations to ensure they remain relevant with technological advancements and changes in the logistics industry. This could build on existing processes detailed by the FMCSA's Rulemaking page.
By focusing on these areas, DOT regulations can be made more effective and responsive to the needs of commercial drivers and the evolving transportation landscape.
How to Display DOT Regulations Skills on Your Resume
10. Reefer Monitoring (Refrigerated units)
Reefer monitoring for commercial drivers involves tracking and managing the temperature and conditions inside refrigerated units (reefers) during transport to ensure that perishable goods are kept at specified temperatures, maintaining quality and safety standards.
Why It's Important
Reefer monitoring is crucial for commercial drivers to ensure the transported perishable goods maintain their required temperature throughout the journey, guaranteeing product quality and safety, and complying with regulatory standards.
How to Improve Reefer Monitoring (Refrigerated units) Skills
Improving reefer monitoring for commercial drivers involves several key steps focused on ensuring the efficiency, reliability, and safety of refrigerated units during transport. Here's a concise guide:
Regular Maintenance: Perform routine checks and maintenance on the refrigeration unit to prevent malfunctions. Thermo King and Carrier Transicold offer maintenance guidelines and services.
Use Technology: Implement advanced telematics systems for real-time monitoring of temperature, humidity, and unit performance. Systems like ORBCOMM’s reefer management provide comprehensive data.
Proper Pre-Cooling: Ensure the cargo area is pre-cooled before loading to maintain the required temperature. This step is crucial for perishable goods.
Secure Loading Practices: Follow proper loading practices to allow adequate air flow around the cargo. The FDA’s Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) guidelines offer valuable advice.
Regular Checks and Alerts: Set regular intervals to manually check on the reefer unit and utilize alert systems for any deviations in temperature or performance issues.
Driver Training: Ensure drivers are trained on the specifics of reefer operation, troubleshooting, and emergency procedures. Resources like NTI’s Refrigerated Transportation Best Practices Guide can be useful.
By incorporating these practices, commercial drivers can significantly improve the monitoring and management of refrigerated units, ensuring the safe and efficient transport of temperature-sensitive cargo.
How to Display Reefer Monitoring (Refrigerated units) Skills on Your Resume
11. Load Distribution
Load distribution refers to the proper allocation and balancing of cargo weight within a commercial vehicle to ensure safe handling, compliance with legal weight limits, and prevention of damage to the vehicle or infrastructure.
Why It's Important
Load distribution is crucial for a commercial driver because it ensures vehicle stability, maximizes fuel efficiency, and prevents tire or mechanical wear, while also ensuring compliance with legal weight limits and enhancing road safety for both the driver and other road users.
How to Improve Load Distribution Skills
Improving load distribution for a commercial driver involves:
Understanding Vehicle Limits: Know the maximum weight your vehicle can carry and distribute the load within these limits.
Balancing the Load: Ensure the weight is evenly distributed across all axles to avoid overloading any single part of the vehicle. This improves handling and reduces wear.
Securing the Load: Properly secure the load to prevent shifting during transit, which can affect vehicle stability.
Regular Checks: Regularly check and adjust the load distribution based on consumption (for liquid loads) or delivery/pickup of goods.
Using Tools and Technology: Utilize tools and technologies like load distribution software or onboard weighing systems to optimize load placement and compliance.
Education and Training: Stay informed about best practices through training and resources like the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) guidelines.
For further details on safety and regulations, consider exploring resources from FMCSA and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
How to Display Load Distribution Skills on Your Resume
12. CDL Endorsements
CDL endorsements are specific qualifications that allow commercial drivers to operate specialized types of vehicles or transport certain types of goods. These endorsements are added to a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) after passing additional tests.
Why It's Important
CDL endorsements are important because they certify a commercial driver's specialized skills and qualifications to safely operate specific types of vehicles or transport certain types of cargo, such as hazardous materials, tankers, or passengers, thereby ensuring public safety and compliance with regulatory standards.
How to Improve CDL Endorsements Skills
Improving CDL (Commercial Driver's License) endorsements involves gaining additional qualifications that allow you to operate specific types of vehicles or carry certain types of freight. Follow these concise steps:
Identify Desired Endorsement(s): Determine the specific endorsements you need, such as HazMat, Tanker, Passenger, or School Bus, based on your career goals. FMCSA Endorsements.
Study Relevant Material: Obtain study materials for your specific endorsement. Most states provide manuals or guides. CDL Manual.
Meet Prerequisites: Ensure you meet any specific requirements for the endorsement, such as age or driving record criteria.
Complete Required Training: Some endorsements may require formal training courses or certifications. Check state-specific requirements.
Pass the Endorsement Test: Schedule and take the endorsement test at your local DMV. Practice tests can help. Practice Test.
Maintain Endorsement: Stay updated on renewal requirements and any additional periodic training or testing.
By following these steps, you can enhance your CDL with endorsements, broadening your qualifications and job opportunities in the commercial driving field.
How to Display CDL Endorsements Skills on Your Resume
