Camioneur

Camioneur is the term used for a professional driver who operates a heavy goods vehicle to transport freight by road. The feminine form is camioneuse. The word is common in French-speaking contexts, including France, Belgium, parts of Canada, and Francophone countries. The role centers on delivering goods efficiently and safely while complying with road traffic and transport regulations.

Typical duties include conducting pre-trip inspections, securing and balancing cargo, choosing and following efficient routes, and monitoring vehicle systems during transit. Camioneurs communicate with dispatchers, log driving hours, and maintain transport documents. Depending on their assignment, they may also load and unload goods, operate refrigeration units, or perform basic vehicle maintenance.

Licensing and training requirements vary by country but commonly include a category C driving license for heavy goods vehicles or category CE for articulated vehicles. Additional endorsements may apply for hazardous materials, passenger transport, or specialized equipment. Professional driver training often emphasizes safety, cargo securement, fatigue management, and the use of tachographs or digital logging devices to record hours of service.

Working conditions can be demanding and are characterized by long hours, irregular shifts, overnight travel, and time away from home. Camioneurs work for freight carriers, logistics firms, wholesalers, or construction suppliers, and employment patterns reflect seasonal demand and regulatory changes in the transport sector.