Heavy Transport Driver - Specialized Cargo

Placements24; Upington; On-site; ZAR 480,000 - 600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Specialized fleet

Training opportunities

Extensive travel

Career progression

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Heavy Transport Driver based in Upington, Northern Cape. You will operate low-bed and multi-axle trailers to move oversized and high-value loads across challenging routes, ensuring safety and regulatory compliance.

The role requires thorough pre-trip inspections, meticulous load securing, accurate logbooks, and coordination with clients and authorities to meet schedules. A Code 14 license with PDP and 5+ years of heavy haulage experience are essential.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in driving heavy transport and oversized cargo
• Valid Code 14 driver's license with PDP and professional driver endorsement
• Experience with low-bed trailers and multi-axle configurations
• Understanding of SA heavy haulage regulations and routes

Responsibilities

• Operate specialized heavy transport vehicles for oversized cargo
• Plan complex routes, ensuring permits and load restrictions are met
• Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections of vehicles and equipment
• Ensure safe loading, securing and unloading of loads
• Maintain accurate trip logs and regulatory documentation
• Coordinate with clients, escorts, and authorities to meet schedules
• Perform basic maintenance and troubleshooting on transport equipment
• Adhere to safety protocols and company policies

Skills

Heavy transport driving

Route planning

Safety compliance

Pre-trip inspections

GPS navigation

Load securing

Manual handling

Tools

Low-bed trailers

Multi-axle configurations

GPS systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent national logistics company specializing in the transport of oversized and specialized cargo, is seeking an experienced Heavy Transport Driver for operations based in Upington, Northern Cape. This demanding role requires a skilled professional capable of operating large, specialized vehicles and navigating complex routes to deliver sensitive and high-value loads. The successful candidate will possess extensive experience with heavy haulage, a strong commitment to safety, and excellent route planning capabilities. You will be crucial in ensuring the secure and timely transit of goods across challenging terrains and long distances. We are looking for a robust individual with a professional demeanor and a deep understanding of the intricacies of heavy transport.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate specialized heavy transport vehicles (e.g., low-bed trucks, multi-axle trailers) for oversized and heavy cargo.
• Plan and execute complex routes, ensuring compliance with all load restrictions, permits, and regulations across Upington and beyond.
• Conduct thorough pre-trip and post-trip inspections of vehicles and specialized equipment.
• Ensure the safe loading, securing, and unloading of heavy and oversized cargo.
• Maintain accurate trip logs, fuel consumption records, and any required regulatory documentation.
• Liaise with clients, escort drivers, and relevant authorities to ensure smooth transit and adherence to schedules.
• Perform basic maintenance and troubleshooting on heavy transport equipment as needed.
• Adhere strictly to all safety protocols, company policies, and transport laws for heavy haulage.
• Demonstrate exceptional driving skills under various road and weather conditions.
• Maintain a professional appearance and conduct throughout all operations.

Requirements

• Valid Code 14 driver's license with an active Professional Driver's Permit (PDP).
• Extensive experience (5+ years) in driving and operating heavy transport and specialized cargo vehicles.
• Proven experience with low-bed trailers, multi-axle configurations, and managing oversized loads.
• Thorough understanding of the regulations and procedures for heavy haulage transport in South Africa.
• Familiarity with the Upington, Northern Cape region and major transport routes within the province and nationally.
• Ability to interpret route plans, maps, and GPS systems effectively.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to react calmly and effectively in challenging situations.
• Excellent physical condition and ability to perform manual tasks related to securing loads.
• Demonstrated commitment to safety and a clean driving record is mandatory.
• Willingness to undertake long-haul driving and work irregular hours as required.
• Previous experience in sectors like mining, construction, or large infrastructure projects is advantageous.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, including allowances for long-haul and specialized work.
• Access to a modern and specialized fleet of heavy transport vehicles.
• Opportunities for advanced training in specialized hauling techniques and safety protocols.
• Extensive travel opportunities across South Africa.
• A stable working environment within a leading logistics provider.
• Potential for career advancement into supervisory or fleet management roles.
• Company provides robust health and safety support and resources for its drivers.