Timber truck driver

What does a timber truck driver do? – tasks and work environment

A timber truck driver is responsible for transporting timber from forest areas to sawmills, industries, or terminals. The tasks involve driving heavy trucks on highways and smaller forest roads, often under varying weather conditions and challenging terrain. Loading and unloading timber is done with cranes or other lifting devices, requiring good technical understanding and precision to ensure the load is correctly and safely positioned. The work environment is characterized by long days, sometimes irregular hours, and a lot of solitary work, but also by freedom and independence. Safety routines are central as the job involves handling heavy goods and advanced equipment in environments where the risk of accidents is significant.

Salary development over time

The salary for timber truck drivers has been steadily increasing in recent 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 represents a total increase of about 7.7% over three years. The rise reflects increased demand for skilled drivers in the forestry and transport sectors, as well as challenges related to recruitment and labor shortages. The general trend in the industry is that salaries rise as demands for competence, safety, and efficiency grow. Inflation and collective bargaining negotiations have also positively influenced wages, but the gap between the highest and lowest salaries remains clear depending on experience, education level, and sector.

Timber truck driver salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 33 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 28,900 SEK/month (female, government sector)
• Highest salary: 35,500 SEK/month (male, private/public sector)
• Hourly wage (average): 202 SEK
• Gender difference: Men 33 700 SEK, women 32 900 SEK (women earn 98% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salary levels can vary depending on location and demand

Education and qualifications

To work as a timber truck driver, a driving license for heavy trucks with trailers (C and CE) and YKB (professional competence certificate) are required. The training path typically goes through high school transport programs or adult education, combining practical and theoretical components. Additional requirements may include handling loading cranes and knowledge of securing loads and work environment regulations. Employers often value experience from similar transports, especially in forestry environments.

• High school transport program: 3 years (transport program)
• Driving licenses: C and CE for heavy trucks with trailers
• YKB – professional competence certificate: Mandatory for commercial traffic
• Internship: Common part of the training, often in cooperation with haulers
• Additional courses: For example, load securing or crane operator training
• Health requirements: Vision, hearing, and general physical health must be met

Common benefits and compensations

Timber truck drivers are often covered by collective agreements, which include access to occupational pensions, insurance, and sick pay. Common benefits include per diems for overnight stays, overtime pay for work outside regular hours, and compensation for standby and on-call duties. Some employers offer wellness contributions, work clothing, or opportunities for further training in safety or environmental topics.

Competition and challenges

The profession of timber truck driver is characterized by a paradoxical labor market: while there are recruitment difficulties, there is also a relatively high unemployment rate within the profession. The demand for skilled drivers is high, especially in regions with active forestry industries, but competition for the most attractive positions can be fierce. Physical and mental strains, long working days, and sometimes isolating environments demand resilience and responsibility. Technological development in vehicles and logistics also means that the profession is evolving and requires ongoing training.

Tips for those who want to become a timber truck driver

To succeed as a timber truck driver, it is good to combine technical interest with accuracy and a high sense of responsibility. Being stress-resistant helps in unexpected situations on the roads, while good physical condition facilitates handling heavy equipment and long days. Initiative and independence are important qualities, as the work is often done alone and decisions must be made quickly. Taking the opportunity for internships or part-time work during training helps build experience and networks. Continuous further education, for example in load securing or new technology, increases employability. Being flexible and adaptable makes it easier to work in different parts of the country or with varying shifts. Finally, good collaboration with colleagues and management is crucial for creating a safe and efficient work environment.

Key facts about timber truck drivers

• Salary range: 28,900–35,500 SEK/month
• Education requirements: High school transport program + CE license + YKB
• Typical work arrangement: Full-time, shifts or on-call
• Work environment: Mostly outdoors, varying weather, solitary work
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment nationwide

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as a timber truck driver, opportunities may open for advancement within the transport sector, such as transport supervisor, instructor, or site manager at a hauler. Some choose to specialize in transports with specific requirements, such as hazardous materials or international assignments. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast for the truck driver profession, demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, but job opportunities are considered large—especially for drivers with specialized skills and local knowledge. Digitalization and technological development also create new demands but offer opportunities for further training and career changes. Those wishing to broaden their options can consider related professions within warehousing, logistics, or machinery operation.

Frequently asked questions about timber truck drivers

• What is the average salary of a timber truck driver?
  - The average salary for a timber truck driver is 33 600 SEK per month.
• What is the highest salary for a timber truck driver?
  - The highest salary is 35,500 SEK per month and belongs to a man with post-secondary education shorter than three years.
• What education is required to become a timber truck driver?
  - High school transport program, CE license, and YKB are mandatory requirements.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 98% of men's salaries in the profession.
• What are the future prospects?
  - The job market is expected to have great opportunities, with stable demand over the next five years.
• What benefits are typically included?
  - Benefits such as collective agreements, per diems, overtime pay, and wellness contributions are common.
• How many job openings are available in the profession?
  - There are approximately 412 job openings in the truck driving profession and related fields.