Driving a moving truck is a reliable and in-demand career choice in Ontario. Moving companies stay busy year-round, whether it’s helping clients upgrade, downsize, or move cities.
Many positions offer daily shifts so you can be home every night, a great option for those who want steady work without the travel demands of long-haul trucking.
In this blog, we break down your responsibilities as a moving truck driver, licensing and requirements, and tips for career success.
Your Job Responsibilities as a Moving Truck Driver
A moving truck driver does more than simply operate a vehicle. This role blends driving skill, physical strength, and customer service. Your responsibilities may include:
- Operate a moving truck for local and regional moves
- Load and unload household or commercial items with care
- Perform pre-trip inspections and basic vehicle maintenance checks
- Use proper lifting techniques and load securement methods
- Provide professional customer service during moves
- Coordinate with team members to meet deadlines
- Handle delivery forms, bills of lading, or other required paperwork
Every responsibility, from careful packing to on-time arrivals, contributes to a positive experience for the customer and a strong reputation for the company.
Licensing Requirements in Ontario
In Ontario, the type of licence you need depends on the size of the moving truck you operate.
Smaller vehicles under 11,000 kg GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) can be driven with a Class G licence, but most moving companies use trucks over that weight, which require a Class D licence.
Class D Licence Requirements:
- Minimum age: 18 years old
- Valid Ontario Class G licence
- Pass a vision test that meets Ministry standards
- Provide a satisfactory medical report
- Pass a written knowledge test
- Pass a road test in a Class D vehicle
MELT D Training
One requirement for obtaining a Class D licence in Ontario is completing MELT D (Mandatory Entry-Level Training), which prepares you with the skills and safety knowledge to operate medium-duty trucks.
Caledon Truck Driving School offers MELT D training approved by the Ministry of Transportation. Our 1:4 class ratio ensures the instructor provides personalized support to every student. Schedule a consultation for more details.
Additional Training and Certification We Recommend
While MELT D training covers the essentials and air brake endorsement, additional training can make you a stronger candidate and safer driver:
- Safe load securement and handling courses
- WHMIS training for safe handling of hazardous materials
- First Aid and CPR certification
- Defensive driving for medium and heavy vehicles
- Customer service skills to enhance client interactions
Career Path, Opportunities & Earnings in Ontario
Many moving truck drivers in Ontario begin their careers with local moving companies, earning around $31,500 to $39,000 annually at the entry level.
As you gain more experience and certification, you can progress to larger residential or commercial moving services, or even specializations like art, antique, or piano moves.
Here are some career growth options for you as a moving truck driver:
1. Specialty Carrier / Office Mover – Around $48,700 annually (about $23.40/hour)
2. Moving Truck Driver for Large Fleet Employers – Around $55,000 annually (about $26.40/hour)
3. Experienced or Senior Moving Truck Driver – $58,000 to $91,000 annually (about $26/hour median)
4. Owner-Operator (specialized or high-value moves) – Can exceed $100,000 annually depending on contracts and workload
Tips for Success
- Keep your driver’s abstract clean and free from major infractions
- Maintain physical fitness for lifting and moving tasks
- Stay current with your licence, medical reports, and training
- Invest in safety refreshers and professional development
- Build a reputation for punctuality, careful handling, and excellent customer service
Start Your Career with CTDS’s MELT D Program
If you’re ready to start a stable career where you can be home every night and work in a role that’s always in demand, CTDS’s MELT D program is the first step. Our Ministry-approved training prepares you to earn your Class D licence and gives you the skills employers want.
Contact us today to get started!
