How To Become A Mail Truck Driver: What It Is and Career Path - Zippia (2024)

FAQs

Is it hard getting a job as a truck driver? ›

The road to becoming a truck driver may be more challenging for some people. But as you now know, the path is straightforward, with several steps you can take to help get you there. One of the most challenging parts of the process can be finding the right company.

Truck driving offers a level of job stability that is often not seen in other sectors in the face of economic fluctuation. The nature of the industry is centered on the transportation sector, which is considered the backbone of the economy.

In the search for the top paying truck driving jobs, the roles of owner operators, heavy haul truckers, and hazmat tank drivers are at the top. Owner operators usually make the most money because they have the flexibility to negotiate their rates and choose the loads that are the best fit for them.

OTR drivers typically have the highest salary when compared to local and regional truck drivers. Depending on the freight drivers are hauling and where, as well as the company they're working with, some OTR drivers can make upwards of several thousand dollars per week.

For some, the long hours are the hardest. For others, it's being away from family and friends for days and even weeks on end. Learning how to drive a truck is a challenge for many new drivers. Backing up a 53-foot trailer or learning to shift and double-clutch are skills that take time.

Long-Haul Truckers It probably comes as no surprise that over-the-road (OTR) long-haul truckers remain the single most in-demand role in the industry. The backbone of America's freight transportation network relies on drivers willing to travel long distances and be away from home for extended stretches.

You Enjoy a Challenge

You'll constantly be challenged with difficult routes, deadlines and more. But, if you are one to never give up and enjoy accomplishing a tough assignment or responsibility, you'll fit right in as a professional truck driver.

Overall, the median pay for truck drivers in 2024 is $103,853, which includes owner-operators, who average $323,889 per year and company drivers who average $59,925 per year.

Long-Haul Trucking Opportunities

Their work requires exceptional driving skills and the ability to manage life on the road, often away from family and home comforts. With the current truck driver shortage, long haul truckers are in higher demand than ever.

What state pays truck drivers the most? ›

Curious about what state pays truck drivers the most? As reported by ZipRecruiter.com, as of March 4, 2024, states such as North Dakota, Massachusetts, Oregon, and Alaska offer average annual salaries exceeding $85,000 for OTR truck drivers.

Whether through small side gigs or your main gig, being in the trucking industry can lead to interesting opportunities. Many people who work in the trucking industry strike gold and become millionaires because of their job as owner-operators, drivers or company owners.

We've come a long way in fighting off the stigma of mental health and therapy. Truck drivers are well known to be considered “macho,” “gritty,” and “tough” based on the rigors of the job, but just like first responders, are subject to more stress than the average worker.

You must follow three maximum duty limits at all times. They are the 14-hour “driving window” limit, 11-hour driving limit, and 60-hour/7-day and 70-hour/8-day duty limits. This window is usually thought of as a “daily” limit even though it is not based on a 24-hour period.

Are truck driving jobs in demand? Yes, truck driving jobs are very much in demand in 2024. In fact, there are far more open trucking positions than truckers. This is forecasted to continue throughout the next decade, as the industry is projected to grow by 11% through 2031, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

How hard is it to get a local drop and hook job fresh after getting a CDL (no experience)? It's extremely hard. Most local companies prefer that their drivers have at least 6 months of over the road experience, and the reason being is because the insurance would be much cheaper if they hire a local experienced driver.

The job of a truck driver is demanding, requiring a unique blend of skills, resilience, and dedication. The long, irregular hours on the road, the pressure to meet tight delivery schedules, and the constant battle against fatigue and loneliness paint a more sobering picture of the trucker's world.

The trucking business can be profitable if done the right way. However, many truckers struggle to make ends meet because they don't have enough cash flow to cover their expenses. The cost of operating their trucks, such as fuel prices and maintenance, can have a huge impact on their bottom line.