The turnover among beginning drivers is high, and turnover due to retirements and career changes goes on all the time. The need for local deliveries has grown due to the constant development of shopping centers, homes, and malls. Because of this growth, Light Truck Drivers are needed to make more deliveries from central warehouses in order to meet customer demand. Light Truck Drivers work 48 hours a week or more, eight to ten hour days, and five or six days a week. Most Truck Drivers start work very early in the morning to make deliveries to chain grocery stores, produce markets, or bakeries.
Drivers get health and life insurance, disability, and retirement pensions.
Union drivers get benefits, but they are negotiated by union representatives of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters. Good hearing and eyesight and the ability to lift and carry are required to do the job. Most companies prefer high school graduates. Some employers require drivers to be 25 years old in order to avoid paying high insurance premiums. Completion of a program at an accredited truck driving school can provide the training needed to job applicants.