The profession of truck driver plays an essential role in road transport , ensuring the supply of goods and merchandise in Portugal and Europe. However, despite its importance to the economy, this is also a demanding profession, full of challenges ranging from long working hours to the need to comply with strict driving and road safety regulations .
With the increasing digitalization of the sector and the new requirements imposed by legislation, the profession of heavy goods vehicle driver faces an increasingly complex reality. The management of driving and rest times , the impact on health and well-being, as well as risks and road safety, are determining factors for those who intend to pursue this profession.
In this article, we explore the main challenges of the truck driving profession , highlighting the day-to-day difficulties, requirements and future trends in the sector. If you are a professional in the field or are looking to enter this area, find out everything you need to know to prepare yourself for a demanding but opportunity-filled career.
What does someone in the profession of heavy goods vehicle driver do?
A truck driver drives large trucks to transport goods. His or her responsibilities include:
- Ensure cargo safety;
- Respect driving and rest times;
- Comply with road safety regulations;
- Perform basic vehicle maintenance;
- Communicate with logistics companies and customers.
Requirements for the profession of heavy goods vehicle driver
Working as a truck driver requires much more than just knowing how to drive a truck. This profession requires specific training , compliance with strict regulations and a high level of responsibility and physical and mental preparation .
1. Training and certifications required
To work as a heavy goods vehicle driver in Portugal, it is mandatory to obtain the following qualifications:
- CNH category C or CE – Depending on the type of vehicle the driver will operate, he must have the appropriate category;
- CAM (Driver Aptitude Certificate) – Essential document for drivers who transport goods. This certificate is obtained after attending specific training and passing the respective exam;
- Digital Tachograph – Mandatory training to know how to operate the equipment;
- ADR (Transportation of Dangerous Goods) – Required for those transporting cargo classified as dangerous.
In addition to these certifications, drivers must keep up to date with changes in road transport regulations and safety standards .
2. Medical and psychological examinations
The profession of heavy goods vehicle driver requires good health, which is why it is necessary to undergo periodic medical and psychological examinations to ensure physical and mental fitness . These examinations assess:
- Visual and auditory capacity – Essential for driving safety;
- Resistance to stress and fatigue – Drivers face long hours on the road, which can impact concentration and reaction capacity;
- Chronic diseases – Conditions such as hypertension, diabetes and heart problems can be risk factors and, in some cases, prevent you from practicing your profession.
3. Continuous updating on legislation and regulations
Road transport industry is highly regulated, and it is essential that drivers are aware of the rules in force. Some of the most important regulations include:
- Regulation (EC) No. 561/2006 – Sets maximum driving times and minimum rest periods. Failure to comply may result in heavy fines and penalties for the driver and the company;
- Safety regulations for cargo transportation – Regulations on the correct securing of cargo to prevent accidents ;
- Environmental rules – The sector has been undergoing changes with the implementation of stricter standards on CO₂ emissions and energy efficiency.
4. Responsibility and professional rigor
In addition to the legal requirements, a truck driver must demonstrate a high degree of responsibility. The daily work involves meeting deadlines , ensuring the safety of the cargo , complying with traffic regulations and keeping the vehicle in good condition.
Drivers must also have good interpersonal skills , as they frequently deal with customers, logistics companies and road authorities. Knowing how to manage unexpected situations and communicate effectively are essential skills in the profession.
Working conditions and road safety
The profession of truck driver involves a series of challenges that directly affect working conditions and road safety. Meeting tight deadlines, long hours behind the wheel and exposure to risk factors make this one of the most demanding professions in the transport sector.
1. Working hours and physical effort
- Truck drivers spend many hours at a time driving, which can cause extreme fatigue and compromise concentration;
- Work involves prolonged periods of physical inactivity, increasing the risk of health problems such as muscle pain, circulatory problems and chronic fatigue;
- The physical effort can also be significant, especially when the driver has to assist in loading and unloading goods.
2. Resting and feeding conditions
- Breaks and rest periods are required by law, but in practice, rest areas do not always offer good comfort and safety conditions;
- Drivers’ meals are often irregular and eaten in roadside restaurants, which can contribute to long-term health problems;
- Inadequate rest affects the driver’s ability to react and increases the risk of accidents.
3. Pressure to meet deadlines
- The need to adhere to strict schedules can lead to situations of stress and extreme fatigue, affecting the driver’s performance;
- Pressure from companies and customers may encourage some drivers to exceed maximum driving times, putting their safety and that of other drivers at risk;
- The demands of the sector make it difficult to balance professional and personal life, especially for drivers who carry out international transport.
4. Road risks and road safety
- The risk of accidents is high, mainly due to fatigue, distractions at the wheel and road conditions;
- Driving in bad weather conditions, such as heavy rain, fog or snow, requires a higher level of attention and experience;
- Heavy traffic and the presence of reckless drivers increase the risk of collisions and dangerous situations.
5. Vehicle maintenance and cargo security
- Drivers must ensure that the truck is in good mechanical condition by regularly checking brakes, tires and other safety systems;
- Poor cargo securing can cause serious accidents, so it is essential to follow the packaging standards to avoid shifting during the journey;
- Merchandise theft is a growing concern, especially in poorly guarded rest areas, forcing drivers to take additional security measures.
Working conditions and road safety are determining factors for the quality of life and performance of truck drivers. Improving road infrastructure, complying with regulations and investing in better rest conditions are key aspects to ensuring a safer and more efficient working environment.
Risks in the profession of heavy goods vehicle driver
The profession of heavy goods vehicle driver is associated with several risks that affect both the safety and health of drivers. From road accidents to physical and psychological problems, the challenges of this profession require preparation and preventive measures to minimize the consequences.
1. Road accidents
- The risk of accidents is high due to long driving hours, fatigue and the need to meet tight deadlines;
- Adverse weather conditions such as heavy rain, snow and fog reduce visibility and increase the risk of skidding and collisions;
- Heavy traffic and reckless driving by other drivers are external factors that can cause serious accidents;
- Poor load securing can lead to unexpected movements that compromise the stability of the truck.
2. Physical health problems
- A sedentary lifestyle caused by spending long hours behind the wheel can lead to muscular problems, back pain and circulatory problems;
- An irregular and unbalanced diet contributes to an increased risk of obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases;
- Chronic fatigue can affect reflexes and attention span, increasing the risk of accidents;
- Prolonged exposure to vibrations and noise can cause hearing damage and postural problems.
3. Impact on mental health
- The stress caused by deadline pressure and the responsibility of carrying valuable cargo can lead to states of anxiety and exhaustion;
- Loneliness, especially on international transport, affects emotional well-being and can result in problems such as depression;
- Night work and irregular hours disrupt the sleep cycle, compromising the quality of rest and increasing accumulated fatigue.
4. Security and crime risks
- Cargo theft is a growing problem, especially at unguarded rest stops;
- Drivers can be targets of robberies, especially on routes considered high risk;
- The transport of dangerous goods presents additional risks in the event of an accident, which can cause fires, explosions or contamination.
5. Exposure to hazardous substances
- Some drivers transport chemical, flammable or toxic products, which require careful handling and specific training;
- In the event of an accident, contact with dangerous substances can cause respiratory problems, burns or poisoning.
The truck driving profession presents several risks, but adopting good safety practices, ongoing training and compliance with regulatory standards help to reduce dangers and ensure a safer work environment for everyone.
How technology can help truck drivers
Technology has played a key role in modernizing the truck driving profession, providing greater safety, efficiency and comfort in day-to-day driving. From advanced navigation systems to the digitalization of logistics processes, new tools help optimize routes, reduce risks and improve working conditions.
1. Navigation and route planning systems
- GPS systems allow you to plot faster and more efficient routes, avoiding traffic jams and poor roads;
- Real-time traffic applications alert you to accidents, road works or changes in traffic conditions;
- Planning your route in advance helps reduce travel time and fuel consumption.
2. Digital tachograph and driving time monitoring
- The digital tachograph automatically records driving and rest times, helping drivers comply with legislation and avoid fines;
- The recorded data allows companies to better monitor working hours and plan breaks more efficiently;
- Analyzing these records helps prevent fatigue at the wheel, reducing the risk of accidents.
3. Advanced security systems
- Modern trucks are equipped with sensors and driving assistants that help prevent accidents, such as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning;
- Internal and external surveillance cameras allow you to monitor cargo security and identify potential threats;
- Applications that issue alerts about when you should take breaks to rest, such as Seeptrucker .
4. Communication and logistics management
- Radio communication systems and mobile applications facilitate the exchange of information between drivers and transport companies;
- GPS tracking allows companies to monitor vehicle location in real time, increasing the efficiency of logistics management;
- Digitizing documents, such as driver card data and reports, makes the logistics process simpler.
5. Energy efficiency and sustainability
- Technology applied to fuel consumption management helps reduce costs and minimize environmental impact;
- New trucks with more efficient engines and assisted driving systems contribute to reducing CO2 emissions;
- The evolution of electric and hybrid vehicles in the road transport sector represents an advance in the sustainability of the profession
Seeptrucker is a key ally
Seeptrucker is an innovative platform that maximizes the daily tasks of fleet managers and drivers, providing technological solutions that increase operational efficiency. For managers, the platform allows them to monitor vehicle activities, streamline logistics processes and much more. For drivers, Seeptrucker offers tools that help optimize driving and rest time, ensuring compliance with regulations. With its intuitive interface, the platform contributes to reducing costs, improving road safety and increasing productivity.
Conclusion
The profession of heavy-duty truck driver is full of challenges that involve managing long hours, physical demands and, most importantly, the need to maintain high safety standards. However, with the support of technological solutions and greater awareness of the importance of health and well-being, it is possible to minimize many of these risks and optimize the performance of professionals. The transportation sector continues to evolve, and improvements in working conditions, combined with compliance with regulations, are crucial for a safer and more efficient future.
In this context, Seeptrucker plays a key role, helping fleet managers and drivers maximize productivity and safety. With a platform that optimizes tasks and facilitates the monitoring of operations, Seeptrucker is an essential tool for success in road transport, providing solutions that meet the needs of the present and future of the sector.