Want to be a truck driver but stay close to home? Being a local truck driver might be the way to go! Not only is the pay decent but you get to see new places and meet new people.
The average local truck driver’s salary in the US is $57,420 but don’t let that number fool you. With experience, you can make way more. Larger companies pay more for experienced truck drivers so the longer you’re out the more you can make.
Of course, being a truck driver isn’t all about the money. You have to be aware of the job demands and requirements like long hours on the road and strict schedules. However, the potential for career advancement and the benefits offered by different trucking companies make the job more appealing.
As a CDL driver, you’ll have the opportunity to work for companies that offer great benefits and perks like health insurance, retirement plans, and more. So do your research and consider all the factors before you start down this road.
If you’re up for the challenge and ready to hit the road then being a local truck driver can be a great career. You’ll get to see new places and meet new people and the average local truck driver’s salary is a good base for financial security. Take the time to weigh your options, consider career growth, and make an informed decision for yourself.
Our resources on owner-operators and long-haul truck drivers can help you to make the best choice.
What is a Local Truck Driver Job?
Thinking of being a local truck driver? There are many things to consider before you start down this road. As a truck driver, you’ll be transporting goods and materials within a specific region, usually within a 100-mile radius of your home base. That means you’ll be on the road and away from home a lot.
The type of truck you’ll be driving also depends on the company you work for. Some companies require drivers to haul a wide range of goods, furniture, electronics, food, etc. while others specialize in a particular type of cargo. For example, at ShipEX we only haul no-touch loads, which means our drivers don’t have to load or unload their trucks.
When it comes to pay truck driving pay depends on the company you work for and your experience. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the national average annual wage for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers was $47,130 as of May 2020. But some drivers can make way more than that especially if they work for larger companies.
Another factor to consider is the number of hours you’ll be working each week. Many trucking companies require their drivers to work long hours, nights, and weekends. But some companies offer more flexible schedules so drivers can spend more time at home with their families.
In the end, the decision to be a local truck driver is a personal one that depends on your situation and preferences. If you’re interested in this career path then research different companies and job opportunities in your area to find the job that’s right for you.
The first step in this journey is to get a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) which is required for all truck drivers. Some trucking companies will cover the cost of truck driving school but most aspiring drivers will get their CDL on their own. Once you have your license in hand you’ll be ready to get started and begin your search for a trucking job in your area. Starting with a smaller trucking company is a great way to get experience and make connections before moving up to bigger and better opportunities.
What Affects Local Truck Driver Salary
You should know that your income can be impacted by many things. By being informed of these things you can make the best decisions for your career and be fairly paid for your work. So buckle up and let’s get into being a local truck driver.
Time on the Road
Thinking of being a local CDL truck driver? One of the biggest factors that can impact your pay is the amount of time you’re on the road. You won’t be covering long distances like over-the-road (OTR) truck drivers but there are still opportunities to maximize your hourly rate by driving as much as you can.
Many trucking companies pay their company drivers hourly so you can earn more by being on the road more. CDL class and experience also play a big factor in how much you can earn as a local truck driver. The more experience and the higher the CDL class you have the higher the hourly rate you can get.
Keep in mind that some local truck driving positions may require occasional long-distance trips which can increase your earning potential. So if you’re looking for a career in truck driving consider looking into local CDL truck drivers to maximize your earning potential and have a work-life balance.
Miles Driven
Local drivers drive shorter routes and are paid hourly or CPM which can vary depending on the length of the haul. Local drivers don’t make as much as OTR drivers but they get to go home every night and have a more predictable schedule.
OTR drivers drive long distances across the country and are paid by the mile. While this type of driving can be more demanding and requires longer periods away from home it can also be more lucrative. OTR drivers who are willing to put in the time and effort can earn more and have more job opportunities.
But all truck drivers should know how they’re being paid and what that means for their routes. Local drivers paid CPM should take longer hauls as they’ll earn more per mile. Hourly drivers should stick to shorter routes to maximize their earnings.
Freight Carried
As it turns out the type of freight a driver carries can impact their earning potential. For example, hazardous materials or HAZMAT can be more challenging and risky to transport. Drivers who specialize in hauling HAZMAT cargo may earn higher pay rates to compensate for the added responsibility and risk. These drivers may need to get special certifications and training to ensure they can safely transport these types of materials which can also contribute to a higher salary.
Also, the weight and size of the cargo can impact a driver’s pay. Local drivers who haul larger or heavier loads such as construction materials or heavy machinery can earn more than those who haul lighter loads. This is because larger heavier loads require specialized equipment and training and more time and effort to load and unload.
Drivers who haul lighter loads such as food products or consumer goods can still make a good living but their pay may not be as high as those who specialize in more complex or heavy cargo. Keep in mind pay rates can vary depending on the company and the region you’re working in but the type of freight you carry is definitely a factor to consider when thinking about your earning potential as a truck driver.
Risks
One way to earn more is by taking on more challenging routes. OTR drivers may be familiar with the thrill of taking on risky jobs like ice road trucking but local drivers who are willing to take on hazardous routes can also earn more. These drivers like ice road truckers may need a different CDL license or endorsement to transport hazardous materials safely.
As a local driver, you may encounter various road conditions that require special skills and training. For example, driving on winding mountain roads, narrow city streets or extreme weather conditions can be hazardous. But for those who are up to the challenge, these routes can also mean higher pay and a more fulfilling job.
Besides the higher pay taking on these types of routes can also be personally rewarding. You’ll gain valuable experience and skills that will make you a more well rounded and valuable driver. Plus you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing you’re providing a service to your community by safely delivering goods that others can’t.
Location
One factor that can impact local truck drivers’ salaries is location. Drivers who work in areas with high demand for trucking services can earn more. This is because many drivers are needed to haul goods in and out of these areas so there’s a demand for their services. Drivers in areas with a surplus of trucking jobs may find they’re paid less because there’s an abundance of drivers.
For local truck drivers understanding location is key to making informed decisions about their career. As I mentioned earlier drivers in areas with high demand for trucking services can earn more. But location can also impact a driver’s overall job satisfaction and quality of life.
For example, a driver who lives in an area with heavy traffic or poor road conditions may face more stress and hardship on the job. A driver who works in an area with lighter traffic and better infrastructure may have a more pleasant and easier drive.
Drivers who work for companies that are established in the local market may have more stable and consistent work. These companies may have more contracts with local businesses so more consistent work schedules and less uncertainty about job security.
Other
Local truck drivers may also be eligible for bonuses and incentives for meeting certain performance goals. For example, you may be able to earn extra income based on fuel efficiency or meeting delivery deadlines. These bonuses can be added to your base pay and help you get paid fairly for your work.
Weekly pay is another option many local trucking companies offer. This is great for job seekers who need a steady income as you get a paycheck every week. Now you know what impacts local truck driver salaries so you can make informed decisions about your career and get paid fairly.
