305 Route Driver

Description:

Job Summary

The Route Driver is responsible for safely operating a company vehicle to deliver and/or pick up products along an assigned route while providing excellent customer service. This role ensures accurate, timely deliveries, proper handling of inventory, routine vehicle care, and complete and accurate documentation (proof-of-delivery, invoices, logs). A successful Route Driver combines strong driving skills, physical stamina, attention to detail, and a customer-focused attitude.

Key Responsibilities (Essential Duties)

- Safely operate a company vehicle (van, box truck, or CDL vehicle as required) to complete scheduled deliveries and pickups on an assigned route.

- Load, secure, transport, and unload products using proper lifting techniques and equipment (dollies, straps, etc.) to prevent damage and ensure safety.

- Verify order accuracy at pickup and delivery: confirm item counts, product SKUs, and required signatures; obtain proof-of-delivery (POD).

- Follow planned routes and schedules using GPS and route-optimization tools; adjust route as necessary for traffic, weather, or customer needs while maintaining on-time performance.

- Maintain accurate delivery records, complete required paperwork, and enter data into handheld devices or route management systems (time stamps, mileage, exceptions, returns).

- Perform daily pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections, report and document any vehicle defects or safety issues immediately.

- Communicate professionally with customers, dispatch, and warehouse staff regarding delivery ETA, exceptions, damaged goods, or special handling instructions.

- Handle cash, checks, credit card transactions, or customer invoices when necessary and follow company cash-handling policies.

- Perform minor vehicle maintenance (checking oil, tire pressure, fuel, lights) and coordinate scheduled maintenance with the fleet/maintenance team.

- Adhere to all federal, state, and local transportation and safety regulations (DOT rules if applicable), and company safety policies and procedures.

- Manage returned items, exchanges, or credits according to company policy and ensure returned inventory is documented and processed.

- Support warehouse personnel as needed (inventory counts, staging product) during slow delivery periods or as business needs arise.

Preferred Qualifications

- Experience using handheld scanners, mobile route optimization software, or TMS/WMS integration.

- Customer service experience; professional demeanor and strong communication skills.

- Forklift certification or experience (where applicable).

- Bilingual (e.g., English/Spanish) — helpful in customer-facing roles.

- Prior experience with time-sensitive or high-value deliveries.

Requirements:

Required Qualifications

- Valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) appropriate for the vehicle type; clean driving record required.

- Minimum of 1 year of professional CDL driving experience (route delivery, freight, or similar).

- Ability to safely lift and carry up to 50 pounds frequently (or as specified by company); able to bend, stoop, climb steps, and be on feet for extended periods.

- Comfortable operating delivery equipment (hand truck/dolly) and basic vehicle controls.

- Proficient with smartphone/GPS navigation and able to learn route-management/scan devices.

- Ability to pass company background check, drug screening, and DOT physical.