Career Assessment - Coming Soon
Associated NOC Code: NOC Code: 7511 – Transport Truck Drivers
Job Prospects: Exceptional
Education: Often Required
Salary Range: Coming Soon
Shunt Truck Drivers drive around a yard, moving trailers and equipment to ensure everything is where it should be. Shunt truck driving can be an entry point for newly licensed drivers interested in working in the trucking and logistics industry.
Shunt Truck Drivers spend their days moving or ‘shunting’ empty and loaded trailers from loading docks to and from the yard and make sure trailers are in the right place at the right time.
Some employers require their Shunt Truck Drivers to be licensed. This will depend on the shunting equipment used, for example, a Class 3/D license to drive a straight truck, a class A/1 to drive an articulated truck, and an endorsement to drive a vehicle with air brakes (A/Z endorsement).
Shipments and deliveries happen around the clock; therefore, Shunt Truck Operators often work shift work. This can include days, nights, weekends, and holidays. On the job, they spend their time:
To be considered for Shunt Truck Driver positions, there are often licensing requirements depending on the type of truck you will be using to move loads. To acquire a license, you must successfully complete training and meet physical requirements. Requirements vary by province.
Many companies require their shunt truck drivers to have either a Class 3/D or Class 1/A license:
Mandatory Entry-Level Training is required for attaining a Commercial Driver’s License in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario. Some companies provide subsidies and assistance to cover the costs of training. Learn more about MELT in the following provinces:
There are specific vision, hearing and physical fitness requirements to get and maintain a license to operate straight body trucks and tractor-trailers; these requirements vary by province.
On-the-job training is often provided (often known as Driver Finishing Programs) to enhance the skills of newly licensed drivers.
Many companies offer coaching and mentoring to new drivers as part of the onboarding process.
Transportation of dangerous goods (TDG) certification is required for drivers who work with hazardous products or dangerous goods.
Compensation depends on many factors, including the company, location, type of load/cargo, level of experience and licensing requirements. Benefits vary but often include (at minimum) basic medical, vision and dental coverage. Other benefits, such as vacation, pension, and profit-sharing, depend on the company and its compensation model.
As you gain experience as a Shunt Truck Driver, you may be interested in moving into a Transport Truck Driver or Delivery/Courier Driver position, moving out of the yard and onto the open road. Working in these positions could offer you a different schedule, experience operating various equipment, the chance to work with other cargo and the opportunity to travel short or long distances.