Distribution driver

What does a distribution driver do? – Tasks and work environment

A distribution driver is responsible for delivering goods from terminals or warehouses to various customers, stores, or companies within a specific geographic area. The tasks include loading and unloading goods, route planning, handling delivery documents, and sometimes customer contact and basic administrative work. The work mainly takes place behind the wheel of a truck or light transport vehicle, but also involves physical work when handling the goods. The work environment can vary depending on the employer and type of transportation, but is often characterized by time pressure, varying working hours, and independent responsibility for safe and timely deliveries.

Salary development over time

The salary of a distribution driver has seen steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,200 SEK per month, which increased to 32 500 SEK in 2023 and further to 33 600 SEK in 2024. This salary increase corresponds to a total growth of approximately 7.7% during the period, which is higher than inflation and above the average for similar professions. Factors driving this increase include rising demand for transportation within e-commerce, growing logistics needs, and difficulty recruiting experienced drivers. Regional differences exist, with metropolitan areas often offering slightly higher salaries than rural areas, but overall, the profession has experienced positive salary development nationwide.

Distribution Driver Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 33 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 28,900 SEK/month (female, public sector)
• Highest salary: 35,500 SEK/month (male, post-secondary education)
• Hourly wage: 202 SEK
• Women: 32 900 SEK (98% of men's salary)
• Men: 33 700 SEK
• Regional differences: Usually higher salaries in metropolitan regions

Education and qualifications

To work as a distribution driver, a high school education with a focus on transportation is usually required, along with a driving license with the appropriate category (typically C or CE). Many employers also require a professional competence certificate (YKB) and sometimes ADR certification for hazardous goods. Practical training or on-the-job learning is common, and some choose to supplement with shorter courses or self-study to broaden their skills.

• High school education: Vehicle and transportation program (3 years)
• Driving license: C or CE category (truck/heavy truck with trailer)
• Professional competence certificate (YKB): Mandatory for professional drivers
• Practical training: On-the-job learning often included
• ADR certification: Required for transporting hazardous goods
• Experience: Internships or traineeships can be advantageous for employment

Common benefits and compensations

Distribution drivers are often offered benefits such as per diems for overnight stays, overtime pay for inconvenient working hours, and sometimes bonuses related to delivery reliability or efficiency. Occupational pension, wellness contributions, work clothing, and opportunities for further training and certification courses through the employer are also common.

Challenges and competition

The job market for distribution drivers is characterized by a large number of available jobs, but also a paradox where there is both a shortage of experienced drivers and relatively high unemployment within the profession. Recruitment difficulties are especially noticeable in larger cities and for specialized transports requiring higher certifications. Challenges include physically demanding tasks, stressful delivery schedules, and high demands on punctuality and safety. At the same time, competition from digital logistics solutions and automated transport systems is increasing, which may influence the profession's content and skill requirements in the long term.

Tips for those wanting to become a distribution driver

To succeed as a distribution driver, it is beneficial to have a high degree of independence and a sense of responsibility, as much of the work is carried out alone on the roads. Precision is crucial when handling delivery papers and loading goods correctly, and good physical condition facilitates the heavy lifting involved in the job. Flexibility is a valuable asset since workdays can be long and schedules vary, and a positive attitude towards customers and colleagues creates a better work environment. Attention to traffic safety and regulations is also essential to avoid accidents and unnecessary delays. For those looking to develop within the profession, obtaining YKB and ADR certificates early and actively seeking internships to build experience and networks within the industry are wise steps.

Key facts about Distribution Drivers

• Education level: High school education with transportation focus and professional competence certificate
• Work environment: Independent, physically active, and mobile work with varying hours
• Demand: Great opportunities for jobs, especially in metropolitan regions
• Typical work form: Full-time, often daytime but evenings and weekends also occur
• Special skills: C/CE driving license, YKB, and sometimes ADR certification

Career paths and future prospects

Within the first three to five years as a distribution driver, there are opportunities to advance to more qualified transports, such as heavy traffic, specialized transports, or hazardous goods. Some choose to further educate themselves as transport managers, supervisors, or start their own transport company. Forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service show that demand for distribution drivers and related professions is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, with large opportunities for employment nationwide. However, recruitment difficulties persist, especially for employers seeking experienced drivers with the right certifications. Digitalization and automation may influence the profession in the future, but currently, the demand for distribution drivers remains high with over 400 job openings in the profession.

Common questions about Distribution Drivers

• What is the average salary of a Distribution Driver?
  - The average salary is 33 600 SEK per month.
• How has the salary development looked for distribution drivers?
  - Salaries have increased from 31,200 SEK (2022) to 33 600 SEK (2024), representing approx. 7.7% growth over three years.
• What education is required to become a distribution driver?
  - High school education with a focus on transportation, along with C/CE licenses and YKB.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 32 900 SEK while men earn 33 700 SEK, meaning women earn 98% of men's salaries.
• What benefits are offered to distribution drivers?
  - Common benefits include per diems, overtime allowances, occupational pension, wellness contributions, and work clothing.
• What are the future prospects for distribution drivers?
  - The job market is considered good with great opportunities and over 400 job openings within the profession.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for distribution drivers?
  - The highest salary is 35,500 SEK per month and the lowest is 28,900 SEK per month.