What is Truck Driving?
Truck driving, also known as a career in trucking, involves operating large commercial vehicles to transport goods over long distances. From semi-trucks to delivery vans, truck drivers ensure that products arrive at their destinations safely and on schedule.
How to Become a Truck Driver
Becoming a truck driver requires obtaining a commercial driver’s license (CDL). This usually involves attending a truck driving school, where students learn to operate commercial vehicles safely and efficiently. After training, aspiring drivers must pass both written and practical exams to earn their CDL.
For instance, TDI offers CDL training that gets you behind the wheel in just 15 days.
Types of Truck Driving Jobs
Truck driving offers several career paths, including:
- Long-Haul Trucking/Over-the-Road: Transporting goods over long distances, often across state lines.
- Local Delivery: Delivering goods within a specific city or region.
- Specialized Freight: Handling unique cargo like hazardous materials or oversized loads.
- Regional Trucking: Transporting goods within a particular region.
- Owner-Operators: Drivers who own and operate their trucks, often working as independent contractors.
Average Salary of Truck Drivers in the U.S.
Truck drivers in the U.S. earn varying salaries based on experience, location, and job type. The average annual salary is $83,158, with top earners in specialized fields making up to $126,882. Experienced drivers and those in niche sectors tend to earn more.
Number of Truck Drivers in the U.S.
The trucking profession is widespread in the U.S., employing around 7.95 million people in 2023. Among them, 3.5 million are truck drivers operating over 4 million trucks.
Trucking Industry Revenue
The trucking industry has shown continuous growth in revenue. For instance, local specialized freight generated $56.6 billion in 2019 and is projected to reach $61.5 billion by next year.
Demand for Truck Drivers
The trucking industry faces a high demand for new drivers, with a current need for about 80,000 additional truck drivers. Factors such as age restrictions (all drivers must be over 21), an aging workforce, and challenging work conditions contribute to this demand. Nevertheless, trucking offers benefits like flexibility, independence, and the freedom of the open road.
Starting a Truck Driving Career
Starting a career in trucking is straightforward. Begin by researching local truck driving schools that fit your requirements, then enroll, complete your training, and acquire your CDL. From there, you can start applying for jobs in the trucking industry.
For example, TDI has an 82% job placement rate for graduates and provides individualized career guidance.
Challenges of Truck Driving
Truck driving has its challenges, including long hours, time away from home, and exposure to various weather conditions. Drivers must stay alert and focused for safety on the road.
How Inflation Impacts Truck Driving
Inflation affects the trucking industry by exacerbating driver shortages, increasing fuel costs, and reducing profit margins.
Safety Measures for Truck Drivers
Truck drivers prioritize safety through regular vehicle maintenance, adhering to speed limits, taking breaks to avoid fatigue, and keeping up with Department of Transportation (DOT) safety standards.
Pet Travel Companions for Truck Drivers
Many trucking companies allow drivers to travel with pets, such as dogs, cats, and other small animals. Before bringing a pet, drivers should check their company’s policies, ensure vaccinations, and prepare the truck cab for a pet-friendly environment.
Trucking’s Role in U.S. Freight Transportation
Trucks transport approximately 72% of the U.S. freight by weight, making trucking essential to the supply chain.
Annual Mileage for Truck Drivers
Long-haul truck drivers typically cover extensive distances, traveling an average of 80,000 to 110,000 miles annually.
Using the GI Bill® for CDL Training
Veterans can use their GI Bill® benefits to obtain a CDL. The process involves applying for benefits, obtaining a certificate of eligibility, and enrolling in a CDL program.
If you’re a truck driver facing challenges on the road or have been involved in an accident, it’s essential to know your rights and options. For legal support and to protect your interests, consult a Little Rock truck accident lawyer who specializes in trucking cases.
