Top 7 Responsibilities of Code 14 Drivers for Hire

Code 14 drivers are an essential component of the freight transportation and logistics sector in South Africa. These drivers operate heavy-duty vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) exceeding 16,000kg, including articulated trucks, tankers, and other specialised vehicles. They are responsible for transporting goods across long distances and ensuring they reach their destinations safely and efficiently.

As the backbone of South Africa’s logistics industry, Code 14 drivers play a vital role in ensuring the economy runs smoothly. These drivers are in high demand, with companies continuously seeking experienced and licensed Code 14 truck drivers with PDP and other qualifications to ensure timely deliveries of goods across the country. Drivers must have excellent driving skills, knowledge of traffic regulations, and the ability to maintain their vehicles in peak condition, so companies must aim to hire the most qualified drivers available.

Read on to learn about the top seven responsibilities of Code 14 drivers for hire in South Africa, including some bonus points for companies to consider when hiring truck drivers.

Route Planning

One of the most crucial responsibilities of Code 14 drivers is route planning. They need to map out the most convenient route ahead of time, considering factors such as traffic flow, road conditions, and construction. Drivers need to adjust their routes to avoid heavy traffic and ensure that their goods reach their destination on time. They must also report any incidents on the road, such as accidents or traffic jams, so their employers can make appropriate arrangements.

Load Planning and Management

Code 14 drivers are responsible for planning, packing, loading and unloading cargo when needed. They must ensure the load is secure and balanced correctly, preventing any accidents or damage to the goods during transit. Code 14 drivers must be able to account for the cargo’s size, shape, and weight in the load planning process. This ensures that the load is well-secured and there is no danger of the load shifting or falling off the vehicle during transit.

Inspection of Truck Before and After Trips

Code 14 drivers must inspect their vehicles before and after every trip. This is to ensure that the vehicle is in good working order and that there are no defects or issues that could cause an accident or delay during transit. Drivers must check their vehicles’ tires, brakes, lights, and other critical components and immediately report any issues to their employer.

Deliver Goods to the Customer

Code 14 drivers must deliver goods to customers or other stakeholders in the supply chain. They must communicate effectively with the customer or stakeholder, providing updates on the delivery status and ensuring that the goods are delivered on time and in good condition. Drivers must be punctual, efficient, and professional, ensuring that the delivery process is smooth and hassle-free for all parties involved.

Follow All Traffic Laws, Rules and Regulations

Code 14 drivers must comply with all traffic laws and regulations governing the operation of heavy-duty vehicles. This includes adhering to speed limits, ensuring their vehicle is roadworthy and avoiding fatigue while driving. Code 14 drivers must also comply with truck rules and regulations, such as weight restrictions and maintenance schedules, to ensure their vehicles are safe and compliant.

Perform Preventative Maintenance

Code 14 drivers must perform preventative maintenance on their vehicles regularly. This includes checking and replacing the vehicle’s oil, filters, and other critical components, ensuring the vehicle is in good working order and safe to operate. Code 14 drivers must also perform routine checks on their vehicles’ tires, brakes, and other critical systems to prevent breakdowns and accidents on the road.

Handling Time-Sheets, Job Cards, and Logbooks

Code 14 drivers must accurately record their working hours, driving times, and other details relating to their trips. This includes completing time sheets, job cards, and logbooks, which are necessary for accounting and regulatory purposes. Code 14 drivers must ensure that their records are accurate and up to date, as errors could lead to delays, fines, or other issues down the line.

Overall, Drivers play a vital role in the logistics and transportation sector in South Africa. They are responsible for ensuring the timely and safe delivery of goods across the country, and their work is critical to the success of many businesses and industries. By performing their duties diligently and professionally, drivers help to keep South Africa’s economy moving and thriving. While their responsibilities may seem straightforward, each requires careful planning, attention to detail, and a commitment to safety and compliance.

Bonus Points for Code 14 Drivers

Beyond the responsibilities of drivers, companies should look for these other essential skills and areas when hiring them:

Strong communication skills

Drivers must communicate effectively with other drivers, employers, and customers. They must be able to receive and follow instructions accurately and provide timely updates on the status of their deliveries. They must also be able to communicate in different languages, as South Africa is a multilingual country.

Problem-solving abilities

Code 14 drivers often encounter unexpected situations on the road, such as traffic accidents or mechanical breakdowns. They must be able to think on their feet and come up with solutions to resolve these issues quickly and safely. They may also need to work with others, such as roadside assistance providers, to resolve more complex problems.

Independent working skills

Code 14 drivers spend long hours on the road, often working alone. They must be able to manage their time effectively and make decisions independently to ensure that their deliveries are completed on time. They must also be able to handle unexpected situations, such as road closures or inclement weather, without supervision.

Continuous training and professional development

Code 14 drivers must continuously improve their skills and knowledge through ongoing training and professional development. They must stay current with new regulations, technologies, and industry best practices to ensure they deliver the highest quality service to their customers. They may also need to attend regular training sessions on new technologies, safety regulations, and best practices in load management and route planning.

By possessing these additional skills and traits, drivers can ensure that they provide the best service possible to their customers and keep the freight transportation and logistics sector in South Africa running smoothly. Their dedication to ongoing learning and professional development helps to ensure that they remain at the top of their game and continue to deliver excellent service in a rapidly evolving industry.

Hitting the road

In conclusion, Code 14 drivers are an integral part of the freight transportation and logistics sector in South Africa. Their responsibilities include route planning, load planning and management, vehicle inspection, delivery of goods, compliance with traffic laws and regulations, preventative maintenance, and accurate record-keeping. They must also possess strong communication, problem-solving, and independent working skills.

By performing their duties diligently and professionally, Code 14 drivers help to keep South Africa’s economy moving and thriving. Companies should prioritise hiring qualified and experienced drivers to ensure the safe and efficient transportation of goods across the country. One way to do this is by partnering with a top outsourcing agency like MASA that supplies companies with highly skilled and qualified truck drivers for hire.

The MASA Specialist Driver Division is Africa’s leading provider of drivers for all types of vehicles, ranging from forklifts to Code 14. With a large pool of experienced drivers, we are the preferred supplier of exceptional drivers throughout South Africa, supplying thousands of world-class drivers to various industries nationwide. Whether you need a Code 8, Code 10, Code 14, forklift, or reach truck driver, MASA has got you covered. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you hire the required truck drivers for your needs!