How to Be Automobile Transporter Driver - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Apr 12, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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One of the most important roles in the transportation industry is the Automobile Transporter Driver. These drivers are responsible for transporting vehicles from one location to another, often over long distances. Becoming an Automobile Transporter Driver requires a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) and a commitment to safety.

Having a CDL ensures that the driver has the necessary knowledge and experience to handle the vehicle transporter safely. The driver must also possess strong organizational and problem-solving skills to plan routes and make sure that vehicles are delivered on time. The main cause of becoming an Automobile Transporter Driver is the financial reward associated with the job.

In addition to the competitive salaries, drivers are often offered additional benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans. Plus, depending on the company, there may be other bonuses such as bonuses for safe driving or incentives for completing long-distance trips on time. The effect of becoming an Automobile Transporter Driver is that you will be able to make a great living while working on your own schedule.

You will have the freedom to decide when and where you want to work, while also taking advantage of the financial rewards associated with the job. Plus, you'll have the satisfaction of knowing that you're helping to safely transport people's most prized possessions.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Commercial Drivers License (CDL). To become an automobile transporter driver, you must first obtain a Commercial Drivers License (CDL). To do this, you must be at least 21 years old and pass a written test as well as a road test.
Obtain the Necessary Training. Before you can transport vehicles, you must be trained in how to safely and properly load and unload them. You may find a company that will provide you with this training or you may choose to enroll in a specialized program.
Gain Experience. Before you can become an automobile transporter driver, you should gain some experience in the field. This can include driving for a local car dealership or even working as an auto transporter helper.
Obtain the Necessary Equipment. In order to transport vehicles, you will need to have the right equipment. This includes a flatbed trailer, straps, chains, and other items that can be used to secure the vehicles.
Get Insured. Before you can transport any vehicles, you must make sure that you are fully insured. Make sure that you have the right coverage in case of any accidents or damages to the vehicles while they are in your care.
Market Yourself. Once you are ready to begin your career as an automobile transporter driver, it is important that you market yourself. You can do this by networking with local auto dealers, posting flyers in your area, or even creating a website for your business.

Reliability and efficiency are key factors for any Automobile Transporter Driver. To be reliable, the driver must be punctual, honest, and provide excellent customer service. The driver should also have a good knowledge of the roads and traffic laws, as well as a valid driver's license.

Efficiency can be improved by having the right equipment and tools, such as a well-maintained vehicle and a GPS system. In addition, the driver should plan their route in advance and anticipate any delays or obstacles that may arise along the way. By following these guidelines, an Automobile Transporter Driver can ensure reliable and efficient service for their customers.

You may want to check Shuttle Bus Driver, Motorcycle Courier Driver, and Tow Truck Driver for alternative.

Job Description

Drive an automobile transporter truck to transport vehicles from one location to another.
Inspect and maintain the vehicle transporter truck before, during and after trips.
Secure the vehicles for safe transport.
Accurately complete all required paperwork and logs.
Follow all applicable laws and regulations, including DOT regulations.
Load and unload vehicles carefully, using ramps, lift gates, winches, etc.
Maintain communication with dispatch to inform them of arrival and departure times.
Ensure that the vehicles are delivered on time and in good condition.
May be required to perform minor repairs on the vehicle transporter truck.
Follow safety procedures and guidelines at all times.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Valid driver's license with a clean driving record
Ability to follow instructions from dispatchers
Knowledge of loading and securing vehicles for transport
Ability to inspect, maintain, and repair vehicle transporter
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
Ability to drive for long distances safely
Knowledge of applicable state and federal laws and regulations
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to remain calm in stressful situations
Knowledge of basic automotive and mechanical principles
Ability to operate a CB radio or other communication device
High level of physical fitness and strength to load and unload vehicles

Having a safe and efficient driving record is the most important skill for an automobile transporter driver to possess. A safe driving record not only ensures the safety of the driver, but also the safety of the automobiles being transported and those sharing the road. An automobile transporter driver must be aware of the size and weight of the vehicles they are transporting, and must take extra precautions when navigating tight corners and narrow roads.

an efficient driving record is important for meeting delivery deadlines and ensuring the vehicles are delivered in a timely and safe manner. A safe and efficient driving record also helps to build trust among customers, allowing them to feel confident in the driver's ability to deliver their vehicles safely.

Off-Road Vehicle Operator/Driver, Snowplow Driver, and Mobile Food Vendor Driver are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in transporting automobiles?
What precautions do you take when loading and unloading cars?
How do you handle customer complaints or concerns?
How would you deal with an emergency situation while transporting a car?
Describe a time when you had to troubleshoot a problem during a car transport job.
How do you stay up to date on maintenance and safety protocols?
What do you understand about the different types of automobiles and how they should be loaded?
What is the most challenging part of being an automobile transporter driver?
How do you plan your routes and manage the paperwork involved in car transport?
How do you ensure that the cars you transport remain secure and in good condition?

Common Tools in Industry

Log Book. A record book used to keep track of a driver's hours of service, miles driven, and other important information (e. g. fuel stops, inspection records, etc).
Cargo Securement Straps. Straps used to secure cargo to the trailer or flatbed, preventing it from shifting or falling off during transit (e. g. Ratchet straps, load bars, etc).
Load Boards. Electronic boards used to post and search for available loads (e. g. LoadLink, Getloaded, etc).
Vehicle Ramps. Ramps used to roll cargo onto the transporter (e. g. Aluminum car ramps, loading ramps, etc).
Vehicle Safety Chains. Chains used to connect the transporter to the towing vehicle, ensuring the cargo remains secure during transit (e. g. Safety chains, tensioners, etc).
Wheel Chocks. Wedges placed in front of and behind vehicle tires to prevent them from rolling (e. g. Rubber wheel chocks, steel chocks, etc).
Tie Down Straps. Straps used to tie down cargo and prevent it from shifting during transit (e. g. Cam straps, bungee cords, etc).

Professional Organizations to Know

American Trucking Associations (ATA)
National Association of Automobile Transporters (NAAT)
Heavy Duty Trucking Exchange (HDTE)
International Automobile Transporters Association (IATA)
Professional Carriers Association (PCA)
National Private Truck Council (NPTC)
Truckload Carriers Association (TCA)
Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA)
International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT)
Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA)

We also have Bus Driver, Automated Guided Vehicle Operator/Driver, and Excavator Driver jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Load Securement. The process of ensuring a load is safely and securely attached to a trailer.
Hazmat. Hazardous materials that require special handling, storage, and transport regulations.
CDL. Commercial Drivers License, required for any driver operating a commercial vehicle.
Logbook. A record of a drivers activities, including hours of service and vehicle inspections.
Towing. The process of towing a trailer or vehicle with another vehicle.
Pre-Trip Inspection. An inspection of the vehicle prior to operating it to assess its condition and identify any potential issues that should be addressed.
DOT Regulations. Regulations set by the Department of Transportation that govern the operation of commercial vehicles.
Cargo Securement Devices. Straps, chains, and other devices used to secure cargo on a trailer.
Driving Route Planning. The process of planning a route for transporting goods or passengers in the most efficient manner possible.
Radio Communication. The use of radios to communicate with other drivers and dispatchers while on the road.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the job of an Automobile Transporter Driver?

An Automobile Transporter Driver is responsible for safely transporting vehicles from one location to another.

What qualifications are needed to become an Automobile Transporter Driver?

To become an Automobile Transporter Driver, you must have a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, and at least two years of driving experience.

What types of vehicles are Automobile Transporter Drivers responsible for transporting?

Automobile Transporter Drivers are responsible for transporting cars, trucks, vans, and other light-duty vehicles.

What safety measures should Automobile Transporter Drivers take when transporting vehicles?

Automobile Transporter Drivers should ensure that all safety measures are taken when transporting vehicles, such as properly fastening the vehicle to the transporter, following the speed limit, and obeying all traffic laws.