Are you dreaming of a career that allows you to be a truck driver while staying close to home? Becoming a local truck driver might be the perfect option for you! Not only does it offer a decent salary, but it’s a great way to explore new places and meet new people.
The average salary for local truck drivers in the United States is $57,420, but don’t let that number fool you. With the right experience, you can earn much more. Larger companies usually pay more for experienced truck drivers, so the longer you stay on the road, the more money you can make.
Of course, being a truck driver isn’t all about the money. It’s essential to be aware of the job demands and requirements, such as long hours on the road and the need to maintain strict schedules. However, the potential for career advancement and the benefits offered by different trucking companies can make the job more appealing.
As a CDL driver, you’ll have the opportunity to work for companies that offer excellent benefits and perks like health insurance, retirement plans, and more. So, it’s essential to do your research and consider all the factors before embarking on this career path.
If you’re up for the challenge and ready to hit the open road, becoming a local truck driver can be a fulfilling and rewarding career choice. Not only will you have the chance to see new places and meet new people, but the average local truck driver’s salary provides a solid foundation for financial stability. Take the time to weigh your options, consider the potential for career growth, and make an informed decision that’s right for you. 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
Are you considering a job as a local truck driver? There are various factors to keep in mind before jumping into this career path. As a truck driver, you’ll be responsible for transporting goods and materials within a specific region, typically within a 100-mile radius of your home base. This means that you’ll spend a lot of time on the road and away from home.
The type of truck you’ll be driving also depends on the company you work for. Some companies require drivers to handle a wide range of goods, including furniture, electronics, and food, while others specialize in a particular type of cargo. For example, at ShipEX, we only transport no-touch loads, meaning that our drivers don’t have to load or unload their trucks.
When it comes to salaries, truck driving pay depends heavily on the company you work for, as well as your level of 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. However, some drivers can earn significantly more than this, 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, including nights and weekends. However, some companies offer more flexible schedules, allowing drivers to spend more time at home with their families.
Ultimately, the decision to become a local truck driver is a personal one that depends on your circumstances and preferences. If you’re interested in pursuing this career path, it’s important to research different companies and job opportunities in your area to find a job that’s the right fit for you.
The first step in this exciting journey is to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), which is mandatory for all truck drivers. While some trucking companies offer to cover the cost of truck driving school, it’s quite common for aspiring drivers to obtain their CDL independently. Once you have your license in hand, you’ll be ready to hit the ground running and start your search for the perfect trucking job in your area. Starting with a smaller trucking company can be a great way to gain experience and make valuable connections before moving on to bigger and better opportunities.
What Impacts Local Truck Driver Salary
It’s important to know that your income can be affected by a variety of factors. By staying informed about these factors, you can make the best decisions for your career and ensure that you are being compensated fairly for your hard work. So, buckle up, and let’s explore the ins and outs of being a local truck driver.
Time on the Road
Are you interested in a career as a local CDL truck driver? One of the most significant factors that can impact your earning potential is the amount of time you spend on the road. Even though you won’t be covering long distances like over-the-road (OTR) truck drivers, there are still opportunities to maximize your hourly rate by driving as much as possible.
Many trucking companies offer hourly rates to their company drivers, which means you can earn more by spending more time behind the wheel. CDL class and experience also play a crucial role in determining 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 command.
It’s worth noting that some local truck driving positions may require occasional long-distance trips, which can further increase your earning potential. So if you’re looking for a career in truck driving, consider exploring opportunities for local CDL truck drivers to maximize your earning potential while still enjoying a work-life balance.
Miles Driven
Local drivers tend to work shorter routes and are paid either an hourly rate or a CPM, which can vary depending on the length of the haul. While local drivers may not make as much money as OTR drivers, they do get to go home every night and have a more predictable schedule.
OTR drivers, on the other hand, often drive long distances across the country and are typically 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 a higher salary and enjoy more job opportunities.
That said, all truck drivers need to be aware of how they’re being paid and what that means for their routes. Local drivers who are paid CPM should consider taking longer hauls, as they’ll earn more money per mile. Hourly drivers, on the other hand, may want to stick to shorter routes to maximize their earnings.
Freight Carried
As it turns out, the type of freight a driver carries can play a significant role in their earning potential. For example, hazardous materials, or HAZMAT, can be more challenging and risky to transport. As a result, drivers who specialize in transporting HAZMAT cargo may earn higher pay rates to compensate for the additional responsibility and risk. These drivers may need to obtain special certifications and training to ensure they can safely transport these types of materials, which can also contribute to a higher salary.
Additionally, 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, may be able to earn more than those who transport lighter loads. This is because larger, heavier loads require specialized equipment and training, and can also involve more time and effort to load and unload.
On the other hand, drivers who transport lighter loads, such as food products or consumer goods, may still earn a good living, but their pay may not be as high as those who specialize in more complex or heavy cargo. It’s worth noting that pay rates can vary depending on the company and the region in which you’re working, 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 increase your pay is by taking on more challenging routes. While OTR drivers may be familiar with the thrill of taking on risky jobs like ice road trucking, local drivers who are willing to take on hazardous routes can also earn a higher salary. These drivers, like ice road truckers, may require a different CDL license or endorsement to transport hazardous materials safely.
As a local driver, you may encounter a variety of 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. However, for those who are up to the challenge, these routes can also provide the opportunity for higher pay and a more fulfilling job.
In addition to 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 that you’re providing an essential service to your community by safely delivering goods that other drivers may not be able to.
Location
One important factor that can affect local truck drivers’ salaries is location. Drivers who work in areas with a high demand for trucking services may be able to earn higher pay. This is because many drivers are needed to transport goods in and out of these areas, creating a demand for their services. On the other hand, drivers in areas with a surplus of trucking jobs may find that they are paid less due to the abundance of available drivers.
For local truck drivers, understanding the impact of location is crucial for making informed decisions about their careers. As I mentioned earlier, drivers in areas with high demand for trucking services may be able to earn higher pay. But beyond just salary, location can also affect 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 difficulty on the job. On the other hand, a driver who works in an area with lighter traffic and better infrastructure may have a more pleasant and efficient driving experience.
In addition, drivers who work for companies that are well-established in the local market may benefit from more stable and consistent work opportunities. These companies may have more reliable contracts with local businesses, leading to more consistent work schedules and less uncertainty about job security.
Other Factors
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 factors like fuel efficiency or meeting delivery deadlines. These bonuses can be a valuable addition to your base salary and can help you earn a fair wage for your work.
Another option that many local trucking companies offer is weekly pay. This can be a great choice for job seekers who need a steady income, as it allows you to receive a consistent paycheck each week. By understanding what impacts local truck driver salaries, you can make informed decisions about your career and ensure that you are being paid fairly.
