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Log Truck Driver

Log Truck Drivers operate large trucks such as 18-wheel heavy trucks to transport logs from forests to customers such as mills. They pick up loaded trailers, bind the load down and transport it.

Most forestry related truck driver jobs are in the private and industrial sector and require a high school diploma and a commercial driver's license (CDL).

A typical day for a driver includes driving the truck to the work site, hauling logs and sometimes heavy forestry machines, skillfully navigating unpaved forest roads, performing pre- and post-trip checks on the truck, and hauling logs to the customer. Occasionally, the driver may load his or her own load, but more typically the work is done for third party land owners and log buyers. As an independent contractor, the log truck driver has the flexibility to choose his or her own hours.

This position may also be referred to as a Commercial Truck Driver or Heavy Truck Driver.

Blake Johnson

Contract log truck driver, Evergreen Timber Products

I love the fact that our "office" changes every few weeks or months. I also like seeing the impact that my job has on the local economy. As a truck driver, I deliver the trees to the mills, but I also get to see the final products leave the mill.

Education

A high school diploma and a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) are required. Many community colleges offer driver training courses that are beneficial for this position.

Helpful courses to take in high school include drivers' education courses, geography, diesel mechanics and repair electives, and physical education classes.

In addition to educational courses, spend some time riding along with a seasoned truck driver to experience a day in the life. A ride along will offer insight into how log truckers operate and how it differs from a conventional highway truck driver.

Tools of the Trade

  • 18-wheel heavy trucks
  • Communication technology, such as a CB radio.
  • Fastening devices, such as chains or fastening straps, to secure large log and wood loads to the truck bed.
  • Truck maintenance and basic tools including, but not limited to, adjustable wrenches, screw drivers, a flashlight, gloves, wire cutters, and electrical tape.

Important Skills

Driving a large truck with a heavy load involves quite a bit of skill and attention to detail. Forest roads vary in size and location, from paved highways to unpaved steep and narrow forest roads. The log truck driver also must be able to navigate and maneuver the truck in all types of weather conditions.

Depending upon the assigned route, the amount of time spent driving will vary. Some log truck drivers drive 100-300 miles per day, while others drive more.

Mechanical skills are useful should a truck breakdown and require maintenance.

Log truck drivers must be reliable, courteous, and safe drivers on public and private roads.

Job Responsibilities

Key job responsibilities include:

  • Operating a semi-truck, or 18-wheel heavy truck to transport logs and other wood products.
  • Ensure cargo is properly secured to the truck bed. To do so, use chains or fastening straps.
  • Inspect the truck and cargo prior to and after each trip.
  • Maintain log books for record keeping of cargo, distance traveled, fuel utilization, etc.

 

Log truck drivers are in high demand. The need to load and transport logs increases as the demand for wood products increases. If you enjoy a regular change of scenery, have a love for large trucks, and are a self-starter, then this career field might be for you.

Watch a longer form video, part of Blake Manley's "Manley Jobs" series, about Log Truck Driving here.

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