These positions involve the operation of specialized vehicles, often referred to as yard trucks or hostlers, within a logistics and distribution center environment. The primary function is to move trailers and containers around the yard, staging them for loading, unloading, and further transportation. For example, an employee in this role might relocate a trailer from the receiving dock to a designated parking spot within the yard in preparation for its contents to be sorted.
The efficient movement of goods within a distribution center’s yard is critical to maintaining a smooth supply chain. These roles contribute directly to optimizing the flow of materials, reducing delays, and ensuring timely delivery of products. Historically, these functions were often performed manually, but the introduction of specialized vehicles and trained operators has significantly increased efficiency and safety within these environments. Proper yard management facilitated by these roles directly impacts the overall throughput and cost-effectiveness of a large-scale logistics operation.
