Trucking Industry Glossary

Compressed air braking system used on commercial vehicles

Reverse maneuvering including straight, offset, and parallel parking

Legal document detailing shipment contents, origin, and destination

Driving a tractor without a trailer attached

Behind-the-Wheel - Hands-on driving practice time with an instructor

Citizens Band radio used for communication between truckers

Commercial Driver's License - Federal license required to operate commercial motor vehicles

Class A Commercial Driver's License - Allows operation of tractor-trailers and most commercial vehicle combinations

Flatbed with retractable tarp system for weather protection

Driving with an empty trailer

Regular run between same locations for specific customer

Paid waiting time when delayed at shipping or receiving locations

Department of Transportation - Federal agency overseeing transportation safety and regulations

Manual transmission shifting technique using clutch twice per gear change

Endorsement allowing driver to pull multiple trailers

Shifting to lower gear for more power or engine braking

Delivering loaded trailer and picking up another without waiting

Standard enclosed box trailer for general freight

Electronic Logging Device - Digital system that tracks driver hours of service

Entry-Level Driver Training - Federal training requirements that must be completed before taking CDL skills test

Coupling device mounted on tractor that connects to trailer's kingpin

Open trailer without sides or roof, used for oversized loads or construction materials

Shifting without using clutch by matching RPMs

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration - Federal agency that regulates the trucking industry

Full Truckload - Entire trailer dedicated to single customer's freight

Air hose couplers that connect tractor and trailer air brake systems

CDL endorsement required for transporting hazardous materials

Hours of Service - Federal regulations limiting driving and on-duty time

Container designed to transfer between ships, trains, and trucks

Dangerous situation where trailer pushes tractor into sharp angle

Engine compression brake that helps slow vehicle without using service brakes

Steel pin on trailer that locks into tractor's fifth wheel for connection

Retractable legs that support trailer when disconnected from tractor

Driver leasing truck from company while operating as contractor

Daily trucking routes allowing driver to return home each night

Record of driver's hours, activities, and vehicle inspection

Low-deck trailer for hauling tall equipment and heavy machinery

Less Than Truckload - Shipping partial trailer loads from multiple customers

Third-party worker who unloads freight at warehouses

CDL limitation preventing operation of manual transmission vehicles, limiting job opportunities

DOT medical certificate required for CDL holders, proving physical fitness to operate commercial vehicles

Rubber or metal guard behind wheels to prevent debris spray

Over-the-Road - Long-distance interstate trucking

Independent driver who owns and operates their own truck

Required for operating buses and passenger vehicles

Required safety check of vehicle systems before operating a commercial vehicle

Refrigerated trailer for temperature-controlled freight

Trucking routes within specific geographic area, usually home weekly

Changing gears in manual transmission truck

Living compartment behind truck cab for rest during long hauls

Adjusting trailer axle position for weight distribution

Flatbed trailer with lower deck height for taller cargo

Dual axle assembly on trailers that can be adjusted for weight distribution

Cylindrical trailer designed for liquid or gas transport

Required for hauling liquid cargo in tank vehicles

Two drivers alternating shifts to keep truck moving continuously

Transportation Worker Identification Credential for port access

Checkpoint where trucks are weighed and inspected for compliance