Professional Long-Distance Truck Driver - Regional Routes

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary with overtime

Long-term employment

Modern fleet vehicles

Medical and retirement plans

Training and development opportunities

Driver well-being support

Guaranteed home time

Accommodation during long-haul trips

Career progression

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a dedicated Long-Distance Truck Driver to operate in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal and surrounding regions. You will drive heavy-duty trucks, plan routes, and ensure cargo integrity across extended trips, all while upholding safety and professional standards.

You will adhere to company policies, conduct inspections, log hours, and communicate with dispatch. A reliable, safety-minded driver with 5+ years of long-haul experience is preferred, with background checks and drug

Qualifications

• Code 14 EC driver's license with a clean driving record.
• Minimum 5 years of verifiable long-distance truck driving experience.
• Experience operating heavy-duty vehicles including articulated trucks.
• Knowledge of road networks and long-haul safety practices.
• Familiarity with ELDs and transportation management systems.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy-duty trucks safely over long distances.
• Follow traffic laws, regulations and safety policies.
• Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections of vehicle and cargo.
• Plan and execute routes considering traffic, weather and schedules.
• Load/unload cargo securely and manage securing procedures.
• Maintain logs for driving hours, mileage and fuel usage.
• Communicate with dispatch about delays and route status.
• Keep vehicle clean and perform basic maintenance.
• Meet delivery schedules and represent the company professionally.
• Report accidents or mechanical issues immediately.

Skills

Route planning

Safety compliance

Effective communication

Tools

ELDs

TMS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished national transport and logistics provider, is seeking a dedicated and highly skilled Long-Distance Truck Driver to operate within Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , and surrounding regions. This role is fundamental to our client's commitment to reliable and timely delivery of goods across extended routes. The successful candidate will be responsible for the safe operation of heavy-duty vehicles, meticulous route planning, and ensuring the integrity of the cargo throughout the journey. We are looking for an individual who prides themselves on professionalism, safety consciousness, and a strong understanding of long-haul transportation requirements. This is a fantastic opportunity to join a stable and reputable company known for its excellent safety record and driver support. You will be an ambassador for our client, ensuring professional service and upholding the company's reputation on the road.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate heavy-duty trucks (e.g., tractor-trailers) safely and efficiently over long distances.
• Adhere strictly to all traffic laws, regulations, and company safety policies.
• Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections of the vehicle and cargo, documenting any issues.
• Plan and execute assigned routes, considering factors such as traffic, weather, and delivery schedules.
• Safely load and unload cargo, ensuring proper securing and handling to prevent damage.
• Maintain accurate logs of driving hours, mileage, fuel consumption, and delivery details.
• Communicate effectively with dispatch and operations centers regarding route status, delays, and any emergencies.
• Ensure the cleanliness and basic maintenance of the assigned vehicle.
• Manage delivery schedules to meet or exceed customer expectations.
• Represent the company professionally in all interactions with clients and the public.
• Report any accidents, incidents, or mechanical failures immediately according to company protocol.

Requirements

• Valid Code 14 (EC) driver's license with an excellent driving record.
• Minimum of 5 years of verifiable experience as a long-distance truck driver.
• Proven experience operating heavy-duty commercial vehicles, including articulated trucks.
• Deep knowledge of road networks and safe driving practices for long-haul transport.
• Understanding of electronic logging devices (ELDs) and transportation management systems (TMS).
• Ability to perform physical tasks, including lifting and maneuvering cargo.
• Strong commitment to safety and adherence to regulations.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to react calmly in stressful situations.
• Good communication skills for effective interaction with dispatch and clients.
• Must be reliable, punctual, and possess a strong work ethic.
• Willingness to undergo background checks and drug screening.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary with potential for overtime pay.
• Consistent, long-term employment with a reputable company.
• Opportunity to drive modern and well-maintained fleet vehicles.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including medical and retirement plans.
• Regular training and professional development opportunities.
• A supportive management team focused on driver well-being.
• Guaranteed home time based on route structure.
• Company-provided accommodation during long-haul trips where necessary.
• Career progression opportunities within a growing organization.