hIGHEST PAYING cOMPANIES
If you’re a truck driver, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right company to work for. As a professional driver, you want to ensure you’re getting the highest possible pay, job stability, and working for a company with a solid reputation. In this article, we’ll explore the highest paying trucking companies in the industry and discuss the factors you should consider when looking for a well-paying truck driving job.
tHE bIG TEN
Below is an expanded list of the top 10 highest paying trucking companies with approximate yearly salaries and information on work hours. Keep in mind that work hours may vary depending on factors such as route, freight type, and company policies.
Walmart Transportation
- Average yearly salary: $75,000 to $90,000
- Work hours: Walmart drivers typically work full-time, with regional and local routes that allow for regular home time. The company aims to provide predictable schedules and consistent hours.
Sysco
- Average yearly salary: $65,000 to $85,000
- Work hours: Sysco drivers generally work full-time and have local or regional routes, which means they can expect regular home time. Some positions may require early morning starts or occasional weekend work.
Old Dominion Freight Line
- Average yearly salary: $60,000 to $80,000
- Work hours: Old Dominion drivers usually work full-time, with various shifts available, including day and night. Many positions offer regular home time, although some regional or long-haul routes may require longer periods away from home.
UPS
- Average yearly salary: $60,000 to $75,000
- Work hours: UPS drivers typically work full-time, with shifts that can vary based on route and package volume. While many drivers enjoy regular home time, peak seasons may require additional hours or weekend work.
FedEx
- Average yearly salary: $55,000 to $75,000
- Work hours: FedEx drivers generally work full-time, with varying shifts and routes. Many positions offer regular home time, but long-haul or regional routes may require extended periods away from home.
YRC Worldwide
- Average yearly salary: $55,000 to $70,000
- Work hours: YRC Worldwide drivers often work full-time, with different shifts and routes available. Local and regional positions typically offer regular home time, while long-haul drivers may spend more extended periods on the road.
J.B. Hunt Transport Services
- Average yearly salary: $50,000 to $80,000
- Work hours: J.B. Hunt offers a variety of driving positions, with work hours that can vary based on route and job type. Many positions provide regular home time, but some regional or long-haul roles may require longer periods away from home.
XPO Logistics
- Average yearly salary: $55,000 to $75,000
- Work hours: XPO Logistics drivers typically work full-time, with a range of shifts and routes available. Local and regional positions often allow for regular home time, while long-haul drivers may spend more time on the road.
Schneider National
- Average yearly salary: $50,000 to $75,000
- Work hours: Schneider National drivers usually work full-time, with various shifts and routes to choose from. The company offers positions with regular home time, as well as regional and long-haul opportunities that may involve longer periods away from home.
Con-way Freight
- Average yearly salary: $50,000 to $70,000 (before acquisition by XPO Logistics)
- Work hours: Before the acquisition by XPO Logistics, Con-way Freight drivers generally worked full-time, with a variety of shifts and routes available. Many positions offered regular home time, although some regional or long-haul roles required extended periods on the road.
| Company | Average yearly salary | Work hours | Founding date | Unique insight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Walmart Transportation | $75,000 to $90,000 | Full-time with regular home time and predictable schedules | 1962 (Walmart, Inc.) | Walmart Transportation is a subsidiary of Walmart, Inc., the world's largest retailer, providing drivers with the opportunity to work for a globally recognized company. |
| Sysco | $65,000 to $85,000 | Full-time with regular home time; early morning starts or occasional weekend work possible | 1969 | Sysco is the global leader in food distribution, which means that drivers get to be part of a company that plays a crucial role in the food supply chain. |
| Old Dominion Freight Line | $60,000 to $80,000 | Full-time with various shifts; regional or long-haul routes may require longer periods away from home | 1934 | Old Dominion Freight Line is a family-owned business, providing a more personal touch and a strong commitment to its employees' well-being. |
| UPS | $60,000 to $75,000 | Full-time with varying shifts; peak seasons may require additional hours or weekend work | 1907 | UPS is one of the world's largest and most recognizable package delivery companies, giving drivers a sense of pride in working for a global brand. |
| FedEx | $55,000 to $75,000 | Full-time with varying shifts and routes; long-haul or regional routes may require extended periods away from home | 1971 | FedEx has a strong commitment to innovation, often pioneering new technologies and processes to improve efficiency and environmental sustainability. |
| YRC Worldwide | $55,000 to $70,000 | Full-time with different shifts and routes; long-haul drivers may spend more extended periods on the road | 1924 | YRC Worldwide's long history and established presence in the LTL market provide drivers with a sense of stability and job security. |
| J.B. Hunt Transport Services | $50,000 to $80,000 | Varying based on route and job type; some regional or long-haul roles may require longer periods away from home | 1961 | J.B. Hunt is known for its commitment to employee development, providing drivers with access to training programs and resources to enhance their skills and career growth. |
| XPO Logistics | $55,000 to $75,000 | Full-time with a range of shifts and routes; long-haul drivers may spend more time on the road | 1989 | XPO Logistics is a fast-growing global company, offering drivers the opportunity to be part of a dynamic organization that is constantly expanding and evolving. |
| Schneider National | $50,000 to $75,000 | Full-time with various shifts and routes; regional and long-haul opportunities may involve longer periods away from home | 1935 | Schneider National is known for its strong safety culture and commitment to continuous improvement, ensuring that drivers have access to the latest technologies and resources to optimize their performance on the road. |
| Con-way Freight | $50,000 to $70,000 (before acquisition by XPO Logistics) | Full-time with a variety of shifts and routes; some regional or long-haul roles required extended periods on the road (before acquisition by XPO Logistics) | 1929 | Before being acquired by XPO Logistics, Con-way Freight was known for its employee-centric culture and commitment to providing opportunities for professional growth and development. |
Factors to Consider When Choosing a High-Paying Trucking Company
When deciding which high-paying trucking company to work for, there are several factors you should consider.
Compensation Package
Base Salary
The base salary is the starting point for any compensation package. Look for companies that offer competitive base salaries for your experience level and the type of driving job you’re interested in.
Bonuses
Many trucking companies offer bonuses as an incentive for safe driving, fuel efficiency, or meeting specific performance goals. Consider the potential for earning bonuses when comparing trucking companies.
Benefits
A comprehensive benefits package can make a significant difference in your overall compensation. Look for trucking companies that offer health insurance, retirement plans, and other valuable benefits.
Company Culture
The company culture plays a crucial role in job satisfaction. Look for a company that values its employees, prioritizes safety, and fosters a positive work environment.
Career Advancement Opportunities
Consider the potential for career growth when choosing a trucking company. Some companies offer opportunities for advancement into different driving positions or even into management roles.
Choosing the right trucking company can make a significant difference in your career as a truck driver. By focusing on high-paying companies that offer competitive compensation packages, job stability, and a positive company culture, you can ensure a rewarding and successful career in the trucking industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors should I consider when choosing a high-paying trucking company?
Factors to consider include the compensation package (base salary, bonuses, and benefits), company culture, and career advancement opportunities.
Are high-paying trucking companies always the best choice?
While high pay is an essential factor, it’s also important to consider the company culture, job stability, and potential for career growth when choosing a trucking company.
Do all high-paying trucking companies offer similar compensation packages?
Compensation packages can vary between companies. Be sure to research and compare the base salary, bonuses, and benefits offered by different companies to find the best fit for you.
Is it possible to negotiate a higher salary with a trucking company?
In some cases, you may be able to negotiate a higher salary, especially if you have significant experience or specialized skills. However, it’s essential to approach negotiations professionally and be prepared to demonstrate your value to the company.
How can I find out if a trucking company has a good reputation?
To determine a trucking company’s reputation, consider researching online reviews, talking to current or former employees, and checking industry forums or social media groups for feedback from other truck drivers.
fINAL tHOUGHTS
Choosing the right trucking company can make a significant difference in your career as a truck driver. By focusing on high-paying companies that offer competitive compensation packages, job stability, and a positive company culture, you can ensure a rewarding and successful career in the trucking industry.
