We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Home

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

How do I get Started in Dump Truck Driving?

By Klaus Strasser
Updated: Jan 30, 2024
Views: 44,902
Share

To get started in dump truck driving, there are many different options available to you. Finding an employer who will hire you to drive is a common way to begin your career. You can also start your own dump truck business, which can mean that construction companies will hire you to transport materials. In some places, a special driver’s license may be required to drive a dump truck.

Dump trucks are generally used to transport and dump loose materials, such as sand, gravel, dirt, and garbage. Most dump trucks have some type of hydraulically operated box or door. This allows materials to be dumped out of the truck, hence the name.

When starting off as a dump truck driver, it can be a good idea to get some training. Training can be acquired in many different places, such as through a private trucking or construction company. These firms can let you start as a beginner, perhaps alongside an experienced driver. Many times, if you already have some experience working with heavy machinery, it can be easier to get a job dump truck driving, because your employer will know that you are able to perform multiple tasks in the workplace.

It can also be a good idea to look at the driving regulations where you live. Many times you will need a special type of truck driver's license to operate a dump truck. This can include taking a driving test, which may consist of both written and driving exams.

The private entrepreneurial route is another way to go in order to start dump truck driving. These kinds of businesses usually own their own dump trucks, and construction companies contact them when they need a load transported. This is generally a good businesses arrangement, because then construction firms do not have to buy their own fleet of dump trucks.

If you want to begin your own dump truck driving company, there are typically two basic starting points, buying your truck and making contacts with local construction companies. You can usually purchase a truck by contacting suppliers of heavy machinery and vehicles. Comparing prices among suppliers can help you get the best bargain possible. Getting the name of your business out to potential customers can also be an important step in helping you find work. This can include contacting acquaintances you may have in the construction field, or making your own business cards and web page.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
By anon991393 — On Jun 17, 2015

I just read your post Ivan and I understand what you're saying. I got my class A license two years ago and unless I go over the road, no one seems to give me a chance. I hope there is someone out there who would give us the opportunity.-- Jose

By drphloxx — On Mar 26, 2015

I have a Class A license that I got through an affiliated local community college. Went to work a trucking company OTR for about 5 months decided OTR wasn't for me so I'm looking for something local dump truck, bottom dump or whatever I can find.

By anon947911 — On Apr 27, 2014

@Ivan83: You need a class A or maybe a class B CDL. C class A is what most truck drivers get during training, so you must be asking the wrong people who don't know anything and give you generic, non-logical answers or you are simply not trying hard enough.

Every truck driving job has requirements; you just need to find out the type of commercial license and if the experience you have counts towards the type of work it's for. For example, I drive local routes and it does not count as OTR experience so even if I drive for 30 years I would not be able to drive for Wal-mart because they require three years or so of over-the-road experience.

By backdraft — On Dec 16, 2011

Dump truck driving jobs are good jobs to come by because they tend to be pretty stable. If you can get one you will have consistent work for as long as you want it.

Unlike some other jobs in the trades, dump truck jobs don't really slow down in the winter and the industry is always in demand.

By Ivan83 — On Dec 15, 2011

I have been trying to get into the heavy equipment industry for a long time but I have found it is really hard to find the training I need to get a decent job.

There are really no schools or training facilities anywhere near where I live. I have called all the big contractors in the area and asked if they need workers or can direct me to a training course but they always tell me that they either have no jobs or are looking for people with experience. I really just need someone to give me a chance and I know that I could prove myself but its hard to find even that

Share
https://www.wise-geek.com/how-do-i-get-started-in-dump-truck-driving.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.