Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers

Task by task

Each task this job involves, as listed by O*NET, rated on whether a large language model like GPT-4 could cut the time it takes by at least half at the same quality. Tasks marked Seen in real AI use appeared in conversations with Claude in April–May 2026 (Anthropic Economic Index).

• AI can speed this up on its own: 5 (16%)
• AI can speed this up with extra software: 5 (16%)
• Little or no AI speed-up: 21 (68%)

• Check all load-related documentation for completeness and accuracy.AI can speed this up on its own · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Maintain logs of working hours or of vehicle service or repair status, following applicable state and federal regulations.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Read bills of lading to determine assignment details.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Report vehicle defects, accidents, traffic violations, or damage to the vehicles.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Operate equipment, such as truck cab computers, CB radios, phones, or global positioning systems (GPS) equipment to exchange necessary information with bases, supervisors, or other drivers.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Collect delivery instructions from appropriate sources, verifying instructions and routes.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Read and interpret maps to determine vehicle routes.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Check conditions of trailers after contents have been unloaded to ensure that there has been no damage.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Plan or adjust routes based on changing conditions, using computer equipment, global positioning systems (GPS) equipment, or other navigation devices, to minimize fuel consumption and carbon emissions.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Inventory and inspect goods to be moved to determine quantities and conditions.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Inspect loads to ensure that cargo is secure.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Check vehicles to ensure that mechanical, safety, and emergency equipment is in good working order.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Crank trailer landing gear up or down to safely secure vehicles.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Obtain receipts or signatures for delivered goods and collect payment for services when required.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Perform basic vehicle maintenance tasks, such as adding oil, fuel, or radiator fluid, performing minor repairs, or washing trucks.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Couple or uncouple trailers by changing trailer jack positions, connecting or disconnecting air or electrical lines, or manipulating fifth-wheel locks.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Maneuver trucks into loading or unloading positions, following signals from loading crew and checking that vehicle and loading equipment are properly positioned.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Drive trucks with capacities greater than 3 tons, including tractor-trailer combinations, to transport and deliver products, livestock, or other materials.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Drive trucks to weigh stations before and after loading and along routes in compliance with state regulations.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Load or unload trucks or help others with loading or unloading, using special loading-related equipment or other equipment as necessary.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Perform emergency roadside repairs, such as changing tires or installing light bulbs, tire chains, or spark plugs.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Remove debris from loaded trailers.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Secure cargo for transport, using ropes, blocks, chain, binders, or covers.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Follow appropriate safety procedures for transporting dangerous goods.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Follow special cargo-related procedures, such as checking refrigeration systems for frozen foods or providing food or water for livestock.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Install or remove special equipment, such as tire chains, grader blades, plow blades, or sanders.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Wrap and secure goods using pads, packing paper, containers, or straps.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Operate idle reduction systems or auxiliary power systems to generate power from alternative sources, such as fuel cells, to reduce idling time, to heat or cool truck cabins, or to provide power for other equipment.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Give directions to laborers who are packing goods and moving them onto trailers.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Operate trucks equipped with snowplows or sander attachments to maintain roads in winter weather.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Drive electric or hybrid-electric powered trucks or alternative fuel-powered trucks to transport and deliver products, livestock, or other materials.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task

Questions about heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers and AI