While route sales drivers work in a number of industries, many of their responsibilities remain the same:

Transport and Deliver Goods

The foremost duty of a route sales driver is moving materials along their assigned route and bringing these goods to customers. They should have excellent driving skills and be able to safely operate and maneuver a large vehicle. Additionally, route sales drivers need to comply with rules and regulations for freight transport, such as height or weight restrictions or guidelines for transporting hazardous materials.

Follow Routes and Schedules

Route sales drivers use GPS technology to maintain their scheduled deliveries and respond to factors that may affect their route, including traffic and weather conditions. As part of this aspect of the job, the route sales driver also determines the most efficient delivery schedule based on expected delivery times. Route drivers also adjust their schedules for unexpected road closures or hazards.

Collect Customer Payments

Many route sales drivers collect payment from customers at the time of delivery. For customers paying with a check, the route sales driver ensures that the check is properly filled out and that the amount is correct; for cash customers, the driver may need to make change and securely store the payment in their vehicle. In any case, the route driver ensures that they provide a receipt and record the customer’s payment.

Perform Vehicle Inspections and Maintenance

While on the road, route sales drivers may need to inspect and maintain their vehicles to ensure safe operation. In some cases, route sales drivers may also conduct regular maintenance, inspections, and emergency repairs. Route sales drivers should be familiar with protocols and practices for removing their vehicles from the road due to mechanical failure.

Maintain Records

Finally, many route sales drivers maintain detailed records related to their activities on the road. This may include daily logs of stops and deliveries, records of payments and transactions, and information about customers who refuse delivery. Route sales drivers may also need to maintain records of mileage, amounts they pay for fuel and tolls, and information about deviations from their usual route due to road or weather conditions.