Light truck drivers or delivery services drivers held about 884,700 jobs in 2014.
The industries that employed the most light truck or delivery service drivers in 2014 were as follows:
Retail trade
20%
Couriers and messengers
19
Wholesale trade
18
Driver/sales workers held about 445,300 jobs in 2014.
The industries that employed the most driver/sales workers in 2014 were as follows:
Restaurants and other eating places
35%
Wholesale trade
28
Retail trade
13
Delivery truck drivers and driver/sales workers have physically demanding jobs. When loading and unloading cargo, drivers do a lot of lifting, carrying, and walking. Driving in congested traffic or adhering to strict delivery timelines can also be stressful.
Injuries and Illnesses
Delivery truck drivers and driver/sales workers have a higher rate of injuries and illnesses than the national average. Injuries can result from workers lifting and moving heavy objects as well as automobile accidents.
Work Schedules
Most drivers work full time, and many work additional hours. Those who work on regular routes sometimes must begin work very early in the morning or work late at night. For example, a driver who delivers bread to a deli every day must be there before the deli opens. Drivers often work weekends and holidays.