If you’re someone who loves the freedom of the open road, has a passion for driving, and is looking for a rewarding career, then a trucking job might be the perfect fit for you. Trucking jobs offer great pay, flexible schedules, and the opportunity to see different parts of the country.
Overview
With so many different types of the trucking companies and jobs available, it can be overwhelming to figure out where to start. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know to land your dream job on the open road. You can find a more in depth article about truck driving jobs here.
Why Trucking Jobs are in High Demand
The trucking industry plays a vital role in our economy and freight move, with over 70% of all goods in the U.S. being transported by trucks. As a result, there is a high demand for qualified truck drivers. Here are some reasons why trucking jobs are in high demand:
Aging workforce: The average age of a truck driver is 55 years old, which means that many drivers will be retiring soon, creating a need for new drivers.
Job security: Trucking jobs are considered essential, which means that they are less likely to be affected by economic downturns.
Truck Driving Jobs Types in Demand
There is a variety of job types when it comes to trucking jobs, each with their own requirements and benefits. Here are some of the most common types of trucking jobs:
Over-the-road (OTR) drivers: OTR drivers transport goods across long distances, often spending weeks away from home.
Regional drivers: Regional drivers typically work within a specific geographic area, allowing them to be home more frequently.
Local drivers: Local drivers work within a specific city or region and are often home every night.
Team drivers: Team drivers work in pairs, taking turns driving to transport goods across long distances.
Specialty drivers: Specialty drivers transport specialized goods such as hazardous materials or oversized loads.
Truck Driving Job Safety Importance
Truck driving can be a dangerous job, with risks such as accidents, injuries, and even fatalities. That’s why it’s crucial for truck drivers and trucking companies to prioritize safety on the road. If you are planning to build a trucking career safety is your long term strategy. Here are some reasons why truck driving job safety is important:
Protects drivers and other motorists: Prioritizing safety can help prevent accidents and injuries, protecting both truck drivers and other motorists on the road.
Reduces insurance costs: By prioritizing safety, trucking companies can reduce insurance costs by lowering the risk of accidents and injuries.
Trucking Job Benefits
Trucking jobs offer many benefits that make them a desirable career choice for those with a passion for driving and adventure. Here are some of the benefits of a career in trucking:
Flexible schedules: Many trucking jobs offer flexible schedules, allowing drivers to choose their routes and work around their personal schedules.
Travel opportunities: Trucking jobs offer the opportunity to see different parts of the country and experience new places.
Job security: Trucking jobs are considered essential, which means that they are less likely to be affected by economic downturns.
Benefits packages: Many trucking companies offer benefits packages, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
With a large variety of job type possibilities, trucking career can offer very specialized driver jobs, with a large diversity of eligible companies. Many positions also offering home time, free medical and vision cover, sign on bonuses, multiple locations of operating, paid vacation and fast hire processes.
Driving career in trucking naturally results in owner operators running with their own trucks. Where as local drivers choose to become company drivers with a very stable pay and work locations, operating in a specific region.
Trucking Job Downfalls
While trucking jobs offer many benefits, there are also some downsides that should be considered before pursuing a career in this field. Here are some of the common downsides of trucking jobs:
Long periods away from home: Many trucking jobs require drivers to be away from home for weeks at a time, which can be challenging for those with families.
Health risks: Sitting for long periods of time and irregular sleep schedules can lead to health problems such as obesity, high blood pressure, and sleep disorders.
Safety concerns: Driving a large commercial truck can be dangerous, with the risk of accidents, injuries, and even fatalities.
Top trucking companies also might come with poor treatment of their employees, so keep that in mind and start building a tough skin.
Requirements for Trucking Jobs
To become a truck driver, there are several requirements that you’ll need to meet. Here are the minimum requirements:
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL): You’ll need to obtain a CDL from your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Age: You must be at least 21 years old to drive a commercial truck across state lines.
Clean driving record: Most companies require that you have a clean driving record with no major violations.
How to Get Started With Truck Driving Jobs
If you meet the requirements and are interested in training and pursuing a career in trucking, here are some steps to get started:
Research companies: Look for companies that match your interests and career goals.
Get trained: Consider enrolling in a truck driving school to obtain your CDL and gain hands-on experience.
Build your resume: Highlight any previous driving experience, skills, or certifications that you have.
Apply for jobs: Check job boards, company websites, and staffing agencies for available positions.
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