The average salary for a long-distance truck driver depends on many factors, including their experience level and training. If you’re interested in pursuing a career in trucking or want to learn more about the average salary in this field, continue reading to see a breakdown of how much long-distance truck drivers get paid.
How Much Do Long-Distance Truck Drivers Make Annually?
A long-haul truck driver’s annual salary can average about $84,355 yearly, depending on numerous factors. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics averages the yearly wage of heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers at $48,310, which is worth noting, considering that most tractor-trailer drivers are long-haul drivers.
What Impacts How Much a Long-Haul Truck Driver Makes?
Two notable factors that influence the long-haul trucker’s salary are experience and training. The number of years a driver has worked in the industry and their experience level are significant determinants of how much they can earn. Because the trucking industry is highly competitive and safety is paramount, truckers with a good track record and reputation may earn more than others. Also, entry-level truck drivers often earn less than more skilled drivers.
Training adds credibility to a long-haul truck driver’s experience. It provides evidence of their skill and informs trucking companies that they invest time, effort and money into their professional growth. Training can also help truckers and trucking companies stay compliant and competitive, especially when it helps them acquire licenses and certifications.
Another determining variable is the kind of truck driving the individual engages in. Solo drivers and owner-operators act as their own fleet managers. They secure and negotiate contracts — unless they’re leased with carriers — and manage their own expenditures, such as fuel, insurance and benefits. They set their own hours and organize their schedules, which impacts how much they earn.
In comparison, when you choose to work for a trucking company, the company handles all transactions and expenses, allowing you to focus on what you do best — driving. The route you take as a driver will significantly impact your earnings.
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Long-Haul vs. Short-Haul Driver Salaries
Both professions involve transporting loads in heavy trucks, but there are specific differences to note. Long-haul truck drivers typically earn more than short-haul drivers due to the nature of their work and the level of expertise required to execute tasks.
Long-haul trucking involves driving long distances, generally beyond 250 miles, while short-haul drivers drive locally or regionally, with routes fewer than 250 miles. As a result, long-haul drivers spend more time away from home, sometimes several days or months, depending on the load and the delivery destination, while short-haul truckers may work single-day shifts.
Another vital area of distinction is the kind of duties long- and short-haul drivers perform. Here are five examples:
- Service logging: Long-haul drivers are generally expected to log their hours of service for compensation and compliance purposes. This responsibility is usually reserved for long-distance truckers.
- Traffic laws: Specific traffic laws apply primarily to long-haul truckers due to their travel distances. A typical example is hours of service regulations.
- Number of stops: Long-haul drivers may make fewer daily stops than short-haul drivers, depending on the loads and route.
- Truck maintenance: Both short- and long-haul drivers must maintain their vehicles. However, the requirements sometimes differ due to the truck’s size, the load weight and the distance crossed.
- Loading and unloading: Both short- and long-haul trucker drivers assist in loading and unloading their vehicles, but long-haul drivers may do this fewer times than short-haulers.
How Are Long-Haul Truckers Paid?
Long-haul truckers generally earn their money based on load percentage or miles covered.
- Load percentage: Some contracts allow truckers to charge according to a share of the transported cargo. This approach is an excellent way to increase returns on shipments of high value but may cause losses on low-value loads.
- Mileage: Long-distance truckers may charge per mile covered, which is more specific. Charging per mile disregards the loads’ worth and focuses on the distance from pickup to drop off.
Sometimes, the nature of the goods being transported attracts additional charges. For example, carrying goods that require special handling or pose high risks to the trucker may cause the driver or trucking company to add extra fees. Similarly, truckers may charge more if the job requires unique skill and expertise to execute.
How Can Long-Haul Truck Drivers Increase Their Pay?
Here are four ways you can increase your revenue as a long-haul truck driver:
1. Gain Experience
Experience is crucial in the transportation industry, especially for long-distance drivers. Traveling long distances while maintaining focus is a skill that comes with training and experience. Therefore, having a reputation for consistently delivering goods safely and on time adds to your value. Your expertise can justify your rates and help you stay competitive.
2. Obtain Multiple CDL Endorsements
CDL endorsements can increase your salary, especially when you combine various certifications. Transportation of certain goods, like hazardous materials, is reserved for certain classes of CDL holders. This creates opportunities for qualified drivers to get more contracts.
3. Stay Compliant
Always be sure your permits and licenses are up to date. Long-haul truck drivers should observe protocols like hours of service regulations and pay attention to the rules of the road. Besides saving you lots of money on violations, staying compliant builds your reputation as a reliable and responsible truck driver.
4. Reduce Fuel Cost
Fuel is an expected expense in the trucking business, but it can cause significant losses if not properly managed. Most trucking companies charge per mile to help them cover fuel costs, which is a good approach.
However, several factors besides distance can impact your fuel consumption, including the load weight, speed and maintenance level, so it’s important to consider all aspects of fuel consumption to save on costs. Also, think about reducing deadhead miles and drag to save money.
The Future of Long-Haul Trucking
There are a couple of things to remember when considering strategies to grow your trucking business into the future.
The first is the need for more truckers in the country. Although it’s been suggested that the challenge is ending, trucking companies should still aim to improve the quality of their services to acquire more clients and stay ahead of the curve.
Second, the trucking industry has faced economic challenges over the years, but the future remains somewhat uncertain. The best way to navigate these turbulent times is to ensure you receive prompt payment. Most trucking companies take advantage of the services factoring companies offer to increase cash flow and grow their businesses.
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