Overview of Employment Opportunities for Truck Drivers in 2024
In recent weeks, truck driver employment across local, regional, and OTR sectors has seen a variety of opportunities.
Local – Regional – OTR What is the Difference?
Local Trucking Jobs: Local truck drivers typically work within a 200-mile radius, allowing them to be home every night. This can be an excellent option for those with families or others who prefer a more routine schedule. Local jobs might require more detailed navigation skills due to the frequent use of smaller roads and multiple stops. Despite being generally less financially rewarding than OTR or regional driving, local trucking offers the benefit of regular home time and shorter routes.
Regional Trucking Jobs: Regional drivers operate within specific parts of the country, such as the Northeast or Midwest, and often stay within a 1,000-mile radius. These positions may offer a balance between time on the road and time at home, as drivers are typically out for several days at a time, with some routes allowing weekends at home. Regional trucking can be a middle ground for those who don’t want to be away from home for too long but still enjoy driving longer distances than local routes offer.
OTR Trucking Jobs: OTR trucking involves long-haul, interstate driving that can keep drivers on the road for weeks at a time. This type of trucking is known for higher earning potential due to the longer distances covered and the variety of freight hauled. OTR trucking offers the chance to travel extensively and can be suitable for those who enjoy life on the road and the independence it brings.
Employment Trends and Opportunities
The trucking industry in the U.S. is experiencing a high demand for drivers across all three types of trucking jobs, reflecting the sector’s growth and the crucial role trucking plays in the economy. Many trucking companies offer competitive salaries, benefits, and bonuses to attract new drivers and retain experienced ones. With over 10,000 trucker jobs available, finding a position that suits one’s preference and lifestyle has become easier, facilitated by online platforms that connect drivers with employers .
The industry is also addressing challenges such as driver shortages and enhancing the quality of jobs through initiatives like improved training programs and better working conditions. This effort is aimed at attracting a new generation of truck drivers, including those from underrepresented communities. Moreover, advancements in logistics and sustainability, along with a focus on driver safety, are shaping the future of trucking, making it an attractive field for many job seekers.
Craigslist Report
We went to Craigslist to check out some of the truck driver employment ads.
If you are looking to jump into a regional position the pay could be around $1500 on the W2 form or $2000 as an indie contractor on 1099.
Over-the-road positions out of the Midwest will fetch you around 60 cents per mile at the moment.
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From Rookie to a Pro Trucker: Exploring Career Growth Paths in Trucking
The trucking industry, a vital part of the global supply chain, offers more than just a job behind the wheel; it presents diverse career paths ripe with opportunities for growth and advancement.
For those starting as rookies in the industry, the road ahead is filled with potential turning points leading to rewarding destinations. This article explores the various career growth paths within the trucking industry, guiding drivers from their initial foray into long-haul trucking to potential roles beyond the driver’s seat.
Starting Out! The Journey Begins
New truck drivers often start with long-haul routes, embarking on cross-country journeys that serve as the backbone of their early career. This phase is crucial for gaining valuable experience, understanding the nuances of the road, and mastering the art of efficient and safe driving. The rookie phase is about more than logging miles; it’s a time for building a solid foundation of skills and industry knowledge.
Advancing to Experienced Long-Haul Driver
With experience comes the opportunity to take on more challenging routes and assignments. Experienced long-haul drivers are valued for their reliability, expertise in navigating diverse routes, and ability to handle high-value or sensitive cargo. Some may choose to specialize in specific types of hauls, such as refrigerated goods, oversized loads, or hazardous materials, each requiring additional certifications and knowledge.
7 tips for reefer truck drivers Blog article by Schneider (opens in a new window)
Transitioning to Different Types of Trucking Jobs
As drivers accumulate experience, they often discover opportunities in different types of trucking roles. Some may opt for regional or local routes, which offer the chance to be closer to home more often. Others might find their niche in training and mentoring new drivers, leveraging their experience to guide the next generation of truckers.
Moving Beyond the Wheel: Administrative and Managerial Roles
For those inclined towards leadership and management, the trucking industry offers pathways into administrative roles. Positions like dispatcher, logistics coordinator, or fleet manager allow drivers to use their on-the-road experience to oversee operations, manage logistics, and ensure smooth delivery schedules. These roles require strong communication skills, a deep understanding of the trucking logistics, and the ability to solve complex logistical challenges.
Entrepreneurial Ventures: From Driver to Owner-Operator
Many experienced drivers choose the entrepreneurial route, becoming owner-operators. This path involves owning and operating one’s own trucking business, offering the freedom to choose routes, clients, and manage one’s own business affairs. Success as an owner-operator requires business acumen, understanding of market trends, and the ability to effectively manage the financial aspects of running a trucking business.
Continuing Education and Skill Development
Regardless of the chosen path, continuing education and skill development are key to advancing in the trucking industry. This could include pursuing additional certifications, staying updated with the latest industry technologies, or attending workshops and seminars on logistics and fleet management.
The Bottom Line
The trucking industry offers a road map filled with opportunities for growth and advancement. From the initial days of long-haul trucking to potential roles in management or business ownership, truckers have various avenues to build fulfilling careers. As the industry continues to evolve, so do the opportunities for those willing to explore, learn, and grow within this dynamic field.
PROFITABILITY! Dry Vans Vs Reefers 2023 video by ET Transport
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Rolling Through the 70s: Classic Trucking Movies That Defined an Era
The 1970s was a decade of cultural upheaval, and among the many trends that defined the era, trucking movies took a prominent place. These films celebrated the thrill of the open road, the camaraderie of truckers, and the allure of the big rigs. In this article, we’ll roll down memory lane and revisit three iconic trucking movies from the ’70s: Convoy, Smokey and the Bandit, and Duel.
Ready? We are rolling through the 70s: classic trucking movies that defined an era
1. Convoy (1978): A Truckin’ Revolution
Convoy, directed by Sam Peckinpah, emerged as a cinematic revolution in 1978. The film was inspired by the country song of the same name, written by C.W. McCall, which had become a chart-topping hit. Starring Kris Kristofferson as Rubber Duck, Ali MacGraw as Melissa, and Ernest Borgnine as the ruthless Sheriff Lyle “Cottonmouth” Wallace, the movie packed action, humor, and a powerful message.
Plot:
Convoy follows the journey of a group of truckers who form a mile-long convoy to protest unfair treatment by a corrupt sheriff. What starts as a protest against authority soon turns into a national phenomenon as truckers from all over the country join the convoy, symbolizing unity and resistance.
Cultural Impact:
“Convoy” was not just a movie; it was a cultural phenomenon. It tapped into the spirit of rebellion that defined the 1970s and resonated with truckers who felt marginalized and overregulated. The CB radio culture, exemplified by the film, experienced a surge in popularity, making “Smokey” and “Bear” household names.
Legacy:
“Convoy” remains an enduring classic that celebrates the freedom of the open road and the power of collective action. Its legacy can be seen in the continued fascination with CB radios, trucker lingo, and the enduring image of a convoy stretching as far as the eye can see.
Watch the trailer for Convoy below.
2. Smokey and the Bandit (1977): The King of Comedy Car Chases
If there’s one movie that epitomizes the 1970s fascination with fast cars and trucking, it’s “Smokey and the Bandit.” Directed by Hal Needham and starring Burt Reynolds as the charismatic Bandit, Sally Field as his love interest, and Jackie Gleason as the relentless Sheriff Buford T. Justice, this film is an adrenaline-packed joyride.
Plot:
The Bandit and his partner, Snowman, accept a bet to transport a truckload of Coors beer from Texas to Georgia within 28 hours, violating various laws along the way. Sheriff Buford T. Justice pursues them relentlessly in a high-speed chase that became the stuff of cinematic legend.
Cultural Impact:
“Smokey and the Bandit” capitalized on the American fascination with fast cars, CB radios, and the rebel spirit. The film’s humorous take on law enforcement, coupled with high-speed chases and Burt Reynolds’ charm, made it an instant hit.
Legacy:
The legacy of “Smokey and the Bandit” endures in the hearts of movie buffs and car enthusiasts. The black Trans-Am driven by the Bandit became an iconic symbol of ’70s cool, and the film’s memorable quotes are still quoted by fans today.
Watch the trailer for Smokey and the Bandit below.
Smokey and the Bandit Moved Car Culture 45 Years Ago This Summer – Article by Road And Trucks.
3. Duel (1971): Spielberg’s Thrilling Directorial Debut
Before Steven Spielberg became a household name with blockbusters like “Jaws” and “E.T.,” he made his directorial debut with the suspenseful thriller “Duel” in 1971. This made-for-TV movie, based on a short story by Richard Matheson, showcased Spielberg’s talent for building tension.
Plot:
The plot is deceptively simple: a traveling salesman, played by Dennis Weaver, finds himself pursued and terrorized by a mysterious and menacing tanker truck driver on a deserted desert highway. What follows is a relentless game of cat and mouse.
Cultural Impact:
“Duel” may not have been a big-budget Hollywood production, but it left an indelible mark on the suspense thriller genre. Spielberg’s direction and the eerie truck chase sequences created a sense of dread that captivated viewers.
Legacy:
“Duel” paved the way for Spielberg’s illustrious career, and its influence can be seen in later works like “Jurassic Park” and “War of the Worlds.” The film’s minimalist approach to storytelling and relentless pursuit theme still resonates with audiences today.
Conclusion: The 1970s delivered some of the most memorable trucking movies in cinematic history. “Convoy,” “Smokey and the Bandit,” and “Duel” each brought their own unique style and flavor to the genre, captivating audiences with thrilling action, unforgettable characters, and a celebration of the open road. These classics continue to be cherished by fans, reminding us of the enduring allure of trucking in the ’70s.
As we look back at these cinematic gems, we’re reminded of the era’s spirit of adventure and rebellion, where the highway was an open canvas, and truckers were the modern-day cowboys of the American frontier.
Watch the trailer for Duel below.
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Roadside Inspections A Guide for Truck Drivers
For truck drivers in the USA, navigating roadside inspections is a crucial aspect of ensuring safety, regulatory compliance, and maintaining a positive reputation. Roadside inspections, conducted by enforcement officers, are designed to ensure that commercial vehicles and drivers adhere to federal and state regulations. Proper preparation and understanding can help drivers not only pass these inspections but also contribute to a safer road environment.
Importance of Roadside Inspections
Roadside inspections serve multiple purposes:
Safety: The primary goal is to ensure the safety of the driver, the vehicle, and other road users. Inspections help identify potential issues that could lead to accidents.
Regulatory Compliance: Inspections verify compliance with federal and state regulations, including Hours of Service (HOS) rules, weight limits, and vehicle maintenance requirements.
Environmental Protection: Inspections can identify and prevent leaks or spills that could harm the environment.
Public Image: A clean inspection record contributes to a positive reputation for the driver and the carrier, which can attract more business opportunities.
Preparing for Roadside Inspections
Vehicle Maintenance: Regularly inspect and maintain your vehicle. Address any issues promptly, ensuring that lights, brakes, tires, and other essential components are in optimal condition.
Documentation: Keep all necessary documents organized and readily accessible. This includes your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), Medical Examiner’s Certificate, Hours of Service (HOS) records, and vehicle registration.
Cargo Securement: Ensure that your cargo is properly secured and meets regulations. Unsecured or improperly secured cargo can result in citations.
HOS Compliance: Familiarize yourself with HOS regulations and ensure accurate record-keeping in your logbook or Electronic Logging Device (ELD).
During the Roadside Inspection
Stay Calm: If pulled over for an inspection, remain calm and courteous. Follow the officer’s instructions.
Cooperate: Provide all requested documents and answer questions truthfully.
Be Respectful: Treat the inspection as a professional interaction. Avoid arguing or becoming confrontational.
Know Your Rights: You have the right to report unsafe conditions, request clarification, and understand the inspection process.
After the Inspection
Learn from the Experience: If any violations are found, use them as an opportunity for improvement.
Address Violations: If cited for violations, take corrective action promptly. This may involve paying fines, attending training, or rectifying issues.
Maintain Records: Keep a copy of the inspection report for your records. If no violations are found, this clean inspection record can be valuable.
Conclusion
Roadside inspections are a fundamental aspect of the trucking industry, contributing to road safety and regulatory compliance. By proactively preparing for inspections, cooperating with enforcement officers, and addressing any violations, truck drivers can navigate roadside inspections successfully while upholding their commitment to safe and responsible driving. Remember, a well-prepared and informed driver not only passes inspections but also contributes to a safer and more efficient transportation network.
Here is a link to FMCSA DOT inspections article.
SAMSara article on different levels of DOT roadside inspecitons.
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Engines Off – Drivers Quit the Road as Post-Pandemic Demand Drops
As post-pandemic demand drops, thousands of truckers are hitting the brakes and quitting the road, facing the challenges of high fuel and maintenance costs in the trucking industry.
According to a report by NBC News, the demand for truck drivers skyrocketed during the pandemic. However, many independent owner-operators who answered this call are now facing financial difficulties and struggling to pay their bills. Since October 2022, approximately 15,000 trucking companies have shut down, as reported by freight and analytics firm DAT. Most of these companies were comprised of owner-operators with only one truck.
The surge in demand for truck drivers was a result of the pandemic-induced trend of increased online shopping. As Americans hunkered down and relied more on online purchases for groceries, furniture, electronics, and other goods, it led to bottlenecks at shipping ports, logistics centers, and warehouses. To alleviate this issue, more truckers were needed.
Trucks play a vital role in transporting goods, accounting for over 72% of the nation’s freight by weight, according to the American Trucking Association (ATA). This high demand for truckers became almost crippling during the pandemic, leading to increased salaries and signing bonuses offered by trucking companies to attract employees.
ATA Chief Economist Bob Costello highlighted the impact of the driver shortage and increased demand on driver salaries. He stated that the driver shortage, coupled with the post-pandemic economic boom, drove up driver salaries. The median salary for truckload drivers exceeded $69,000 in 2021, representing an 18% increase from the previous survey. Additionally, the median salary for a driver at a private fleet was $85,000.
Owning one’s own rig offered even higher pay, with trucking firms advertising six-figure incomes for owner-operators. Social media influencers shared stories of wealth and success on the road, leading to a surge in individuals investing in trucks and starting their own mini trucking operations. The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association reported a 50% increase in the number of trucking companies between the beginning of the pandemic and the end of the previous year.
In April 2022, President Joe Biden celebrated his success in addressing supply-chain disruptions by showcasing parked rigs on the White House Lawn. He stated that trucking employment in 2021 reached its highest level since 1994, with 35,000 more trucking jobs than before the pandemic.
However, the current inflationary environment is impacting consumer spending habits, resulting in a slowdown in demand for truckers. Some individuals who entered the trucking business found it challenging to navigate fluctuations in fuel prices and maintenance expenses. As truckers exit the industry due to shrinking demand for their services, the equipment they purchased is no longer able to command the same high prices they paid for it.
Trucker David Coates from Houston expressed his views on the situation, stating that a “trucking purge” might be necessary for the industry to rebalance. He believes that many of the new companies will have to go out of business to bring stability to the market.
The struggles faced by owner-operators in the trucking industry reflect the boom and bust cycle often observed during a pandemic. However, looking ahead, the future is not entirely bleak. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 6% growth in transportation and material-moving occupations from 2021 to 2031, which is in line with the average pace for all occupations. This projection translates to approximately 861,800 new jobs over the decade, with more than 1.9 million openings each year expected from growth and replacement needs.
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Lawmaker Pledges to Block Speed Restriction Devices on Trucks
WASHINGTON — A preemptive move against a proposed truck speed limiter rule set to be published this year has been made by an Oklahoma legislator, who introduced a bill to halt its implementation.
The DRIVE Act (Deregulating Restrictions on Interstate Vehicles and Eighteen-Wheelers), presented in the U.S. House on Tuesday by Republican Josh Brecheen, aims to prevent the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration from enforcing any rule requiring vehicles weighing over 26,000 pounds and involved in interstate commerce to have a speed limiting device set at a maximum speed, as stated in a release from Brecheen. The bill’s draft has not been released yet.
The FMCSA indicated in a notice of intent last year that it plans to propose that commercial trucks involved in interstate commerce with a GVWR or GVW of 26,001 pounds or more, whichever is greater, be fitted with an electronic engine control unit that governs an as-yet-undetermined maximum speed. This notice received over 15,000 comments, mostly from drivers or small carriers who strongly opposed the idea.
Brecheen, a fourth-generation rancher and ex-trucking company owner, contends that the rule would negatively affect both the agricultural and trucking sectors, as it would encompass livestock trailer/truck combinations and grain trucks.
Brecheen argues that this overreaching rule by the Biden Administration could have detrimental effects on the agricultural and trucking industries. He draws from his own experience of driving a semi-truck and hauling livestock, emphasizing the importance of following state-set traffic flow for safety rather than imposing a one-size-fits-all speed limit determined by a Washington, D.C., bureaucrat.
He cites a 2005 study that showed a 227% increase in vehicle interactions when traveling 10 mph below the posted speed limit compared to vehicles moving at traffic speed. Todd Spencer, president of the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association, which supports Brecheen’s bill, claims that such interactions lead to more accidents.
Brecheen’s bill has received backing from several organizations, including the National Association of Small Trucking Companies, Western States Trucking Association, American Farm Bureau Federation, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, United States Cattlemen’s Association, Livestock Marketing Association, and the Towing and Recovery Association of America.
The American Trucking Association (ATA) initially supported a fixed maximum speed of 65 mph for all Class 7 and 8 trucks with electronic speed governors produced after 1992 but has since revised its policy to support a maximum of 70 mph for such trucks, taking into account the latest safety technology.
ATA has responded to Brecheen’s bill by suggesting that the U.S. Department of Transportation conduct a recurring five-year review of speed governing regulations to ensure they align with current technologies. ATA Executive Vice President of Advocacy Bill Sullivan claims that efforts to block the development of safety policies are misguided, will lead to more severe accidents, and that the bill will never become law, even if it passes the House.