10 Highest Paying Trucking Salaries of 2024

Truck driver compensation is highly variable based on  multiple factors. More experience, difficult loads, maintaining a clean driving record, and a willingness to travel to remote locations or endure risk are some traits of a driver who earns a higher-than-average salary. 

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The average truck driver salary in the United States is $83,158 per year. However, it may vary depending on the type of truck that you drive.

For example, a hazmat driver transporting dangerous, toxic materials must operate their commercial vehicle with greater care and alertness. A hazardous materials accident, even a minor one, could lead to the evacuation of entire towns. A material leak or, worse, an explosion could occur and possibly cause a mass casualty incident or environmental damage. 

When you compare the risks of transporting hazardous materials with the average dry van load of toilet paper, it&#;s easy to see why a hazmat driver must be more attentive to safety and why they receive higher-than-average compensation.  However, if transporting hazardous materials isn&#;t appealing, you have other options to increase your pay as a truck driver. 

How Much Is a Truck Driver&#;s Salary in ?

Salary: $54,502 to $189,320

Truck driver salaries vary widely depending on factors such as region, type of equipment, and experience level. According to recent data, the latest truck driver salary ranges from $54,502 to $189,320 annually. Earning potential is also dependent on employer, driving record, and the types of loads they move. Drivers who are willing to train for extra endorsements or work in remote areas are typically the ones who have the highest-paying trucking jobs. Truck drivers can get paid in a variety of ways, depending on their operating mode and route type. Solo drivers typically work alone and must take time to stop and sleep between shifts to comply with Hours of Service (HOS) regulations. In a team driving situation, two drivers share the driving responsibilities and make runs together, allowing for more continuous operation of the truck.

Truck drivers also get paid based on their route type. For example, OTR (Over-the-Road) drivers typically spend weeks on the road, traveling long distances and making deliveries across the country. While OTR trucking can be demanding, it often commands the highest salary and offers the opportunity to see new places. Regional drivers stay within a specific geographic area, which generally means they can come home on the weekends.

Highest Paying Trucking Salaries per City

10 Highest Annual Salaries in the Trucking Industry

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1. What is the Salary of an Owner-Operator?

Average annual salary: $190,140 - $541,624

Career site Indeed lists the salary range of an owner-operator driver between $190,140 and $541,624 as of November . It&#;s a very large range because it takes a lot of factors into account. Also, an owner-operator cannot be classified as a regular trucking job for the purposes of a site, and rightfully so. These drivers are much more than your average salaried employee. They are business owners operating a trucking company, even if they only have one truck. 

An owner-operator&#;s responsibilities cover the full range of a trucking company's operations. From managing expenses to finding loads to paying employees insurance, benefits, and wages. The sky is the limit for owner-operators, and their take-home pay ultimately depends on the amount of work they are willing (or able) to take on. 

But an owner-operator doesn&#;t have to work alone. Owner-operators with 2 years or more experience are eligible to work with CloudTrucks. We give owner-operators complete freedom to run their business as they wish while we take care of the logistics. We provide back-end support to hundreds of truck drivers by giving them access to curated loads, business insights, insurance, and customer support.

For owner-operators who want to drive under our authority, we have a Virtual Carrier solution. Once a driver is approved, all they have to do is download the app, and they are ready to accept loads and start earning. Drivers who have signed on with CloudTrucks earn as much as $20,000 per month and get paid in minutes instead of months.

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2. How Much Do Team Truck Drivers Make?

Average annual salary: $119,464

Team truck drivers make between $11,000 and $239,000, with the national average salary of $119,464, according to ZipRecruiter. &#;Team drivers are the pinnacle of high-speed, long-range load delivery. Typically, a team consists of two drivers in the same truck, driving in shifts to keep their load moving up to twenty-two hours a day.

To give you an idea of how big a difference this makes, consider that it typically takes a solo driver six days to drive from coast to coast. A team can make the same trip in as little as three days. Companies that require such high-speed delivery pay more for the service, and the team of drivers, in turn, can earn a much higher compensation.

3. How Much Do Specialty Vehicle Haulers Make?

Average annual salary: $95,146 

Specialty vehicle haulers or &#;car haulers&#; make between $74,815 and $121,002 per year, according to Indeed. Car haulers often transport high-value or specialty vehicles such as race cars, luxury automobiles, collectibles, and other expensive items. They must exercise extreme caution to avoid damaging these high-value loads. Even when parked, these drivers must take additional precautions to ensure another driver's negligence doesn't damage the load and follow special procedures to protect against theft.

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4. What is the Annual Salary for Oversized Load Drivers?

Average annual salary: $82,262

According to ZipRecruiter, the average annual salary for oversized load truckers ranges from $34,000 to $152,000. Oversized loads, also known as over-dimension loads, exceed the standard legal dimensions set by federal regulations. As a result, oversized haulers must display extraordinary skills in maneuvering loads, which may include construction equipment, wind turbines, mobile homes, and industrial machinery.

Oversized load drivers must follow additional regulations that specify the routes and times of day these loads are legally allowed to move. As a result, an escort crew is often required, and some companies require the driver to hire their own escort team. Because these large items are usually quite expensive, additional insurance and other precautions are also required. A higher compensation for the driver behind the wheel of these behemoth loads comes with the territory.

5. What is the Average Salary of Regional Truck Drivers?

Average annual salary: $75,877

According to the most recent reports from ZipRecruiter, the average annual pay for a regional truck driver in the United States is around $75,877. Nevertheless, this varies considerably, from $39,500 to $99,500 and beyond, based on expertise, region, and trucking firm type criteria.

Regional truck drivers often work in a specific geographic area, such as a few states or a portion of the country. This can provide more time at home and reasonable compensation. In addition, specific regional driving jobs may include additional perks such as signing bonuses or health insurance.

Regional truck drivers may be eligible for additional benefits such as paid time off, retirement plans, and health insurance. In addition, several trucking firms provide incentives and bonuses to drivers who reach performance goals or work in high-demand locations, which can enhance earning potential even more. 

6. How Much Do Ice Road Drivers Make?

Average annual salary: $66,422 

While an average annual salary of $62,422 (according to ZipRecruiter) may seem middle-of-the-road, you have to consider that ice road truckers make this amount of money within three to four months. That gives them time to pursue other opportunities during the off-season or enjoy their time off for a better work-life balance as a truck driver.

Ice road driving became a famous trucking industry niche when the History Channel launched the show: Ice Road Truckers. As depicted in the TV show, these drivers operate in wilderness areas, like the ones deep in the northern latitudes of Canada. They take on immense risk as they traverse challenging terrain and dangerous road conditions to deliver cargo to remote towns and mining operations. Optimal conditions for these loads exist for a few short months out of the year,which is why these drivers earn a full year's salary in that short period.

To become an ice road trucker, you need several years of experience and a history of safe operation with a broad range of equipment. It's considered one of the most challenging ways to drive a truck but also one of the most lucrative.

7. What is the Average Salary of a Tanker Driver?

Average annual salary: $62,166

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A tanker truck driver makes between $24,500 and $90,500 per year, according to ZipRecruiter. Because of the physics involved with liquids in large containers, something as simple as turning sharply or slamming on the brakes too hard can cause an instant disaster. A mistake with hazmat liquid loads such as gasoline or liquid propane can result in giant fireballs and extreme heat - often referred to as a "Viking Funeral" by the drivers. Acids and deadly fumes are also a part of the risk package for liquids/tanker drivers, and other drivers on the road often give them a wide berth.

The compensation for liquids/tanker drivers reflects the hazardous loads they transport and the high level of skill they demonstrate in moving these materials safely.

8. How Much Do Hazmat Drivers Make?

Average annual salary: $61,068

ZipRecruiter reports that hazmat truck drivers make between $36,000 and $105,500 per year, with the national average at $61,068. As mentioned earlier, hazmat drivers have to be on high alert. Their loads consist of dangerous and highly toxic materials. Any accident has a high potential to spark a disaster, leading to loss of life, lengthy and expensive clean-up, and lost profits for the driver and company. Hazmat drivers must also pass a TSA (Transportation Security Administration) background investigation,  maintain additional endorsements, and follow additional state and federal regulations. 

Because of the need for specialized equipment and the additional risks and requirements associated with transporting hazardous materials, hazmat drivers typically earn a substantially higher salary than drivers operating a standard dry van, reefer, or flatbed unit.

9. How Much Do Mining Industry Truck Drivers Make?

Average annual salary: $40,655

Mine truck drivers make $40,655 per year on average according to ZipRecruiter, with the salary range falling between $28,500 and $70,000. These drivers operate massive dump trucks in mining and quarry operations. They must maintain a high level of productivity while on the clock, operating safely in an area where smaller commercial vehicles and company equipment are present. Outside the mining industry, you can find these trucks at specific industrial and port locations that handle raw materials and goods used at the base of our nation's industrial chain. 

10. What is the Annual Salary of Private Fleet Drivers?

Average annual salary: $29,992

Some major retailers and manufacturers maintain their fleet of drivers to transport goods from their distribution centers or factories to their stores or customers. ZipRecruiter lists the annual salary range of a fleet driver between $18,000 and $48,000, with the national average at $29,992. But pay will vary greatly depending on the retailer.

For example, one of the most well-known private fleets in America -Walmart- announced in that the salary for the company&#;s truck drivers would increase to between $95,000 to $110,000 a year. Their drivers enjoy higher-than-average pay, shorter work weeks, and industry-leading benefit packages. The caveat to private fleets is high standards for hiring drivers. Some private fleets require many years of experience and immaculate driving records. Private fleets see extremely low turnover compared to the rest of the trucking industry.

Takeaway

Drivers who want to earn more in the trucking industry go above and beyond the norm to acquire in-demand skills and endorsements that open new and lucrative doors for their careers. Even if you've recently acquired your CDL, these high-paying jobs will be within your reach once you've put in the time and maintained a safe, clean driving record.

When shipping freight over-the-road (OTR), shippers can choose from various freight trailer types: dry van, flatbed, refrigerated, and more. Each transportation mode has advantages and disadvantages for all shippers and carriers hauling freight. Depending on your shipping needs and freight type, you should consider a few options before deciding which one will work best for you.

There are several types of trailers, with the three most used being dry van trailers, flatbed trailers, and refrigerated trailers, also known as reefer trailers. Learning more about these main types of trailers will help you better understand freight shipping and find the best option for you.

What are the pros and cons of trailer types for shippers?

Dry Van Trailer

Dry van trailers look like enclosed boxes made to move &#;dry&#; cargo. The sizes of the dry van trailers vary, but the most common are the 48 and 53-foot trailers on the road. These trailers are the safest equipment for the freight and can hold up to 45,000 lbs. (about twice the weight of a school bus). Besides being the safest, dry van trailers are also the most common truck used in transportation.

Pros

• Dry van trailers can transport most types of freight. Therefore, a dry van trailer is an excellent option if you are not shipping hazardous, oversized, or perishable goods.
• Your freight is secure and protected from severe weather, damage, and theft during transit.
• Many dry van trucking companies provide regional and short hauls in addition to long hauls, so you have flexibility in scheduling your shipments and choosing routes.
• A dry van is efficient. The trailer can consolidate a range of materials into one shipment.

Cons

• Dry van trailers are in high demand, so finding the capacity, you need for your freight can be challenging.
• These trailers can&#;t transport perishables, flowers, fine art, or food.
• The most common use for dry vans is moving valuable goods like electronics, so these trucks can often be an object of theft.
• These trailers have a smaller capacity due to the different lengths, weight, and height requirements.

Flatbed Trailer

Flatbeds are open trailers for moving oversized freight like heavy machinery and large equipment. There are several types of flatbeds; however, they are all primarily flat platforms without cover and sides attached to the truck where cargo is loaded and fixed. You can pack your goods from different angles, the trailer&#;s top, side, and rear. There are many options for flatbed trailers, but some of the most common types are the standard flatbed, step deck, or double drop.

Pros

• Flatbed trailers are easy to load, and the shipper is not responsible for fixing and securing the load to a platform.
• The flatbed is the best option for you if you deliver bulky loads or freight of irregular shapes.
• They provide much easier upkeep due to the open deck of the flatbed. Due to the openness, there is also no need to repair any walls or roofs.

Cons

• Transporting oversized loads requires specific hauling and maneuvering skills, leading to high rates.
• The requirement is to secure loads properly since poorly connected freight is a threat to a road accident.
• Flatbed trailers expose loads to the elements, so moving freight during severe weather conditions can negatively affect the shipment.
• Stricter regulations come with using the flatbed trailer. Failure to comply with the rules could lead to fines and a license suspension.

Refrigerated Trailer

Refrigerated trucks look like dry vans but have temperature regulation tools. These trailers have climate control to accommodate certain temperatures, so your freight remains in the required temperature range during transit. In addition, the temperatures in a refrigerated trailer never increase or decrease, so your shipped items will stay at the same temperature you choose for the entire time.

Pros

• Refrigerated trucks are perfect for food and beverage shippers, moving flowers, and art pieces.
• Refrigerated trucks can move temperature-sensitive and &#;dry&#; freight, so you can combine different cargo types in one load if needed.
• The pick-up and delivery are more straightforward than other methods of transportation. Different grocery stores have organized and well-run loading docks, making the process less stressful.
• The trailer protects the freight from weather conditions, theft, spoilage, and damage.

Cons

• Products can spoil when trailer damage occurs, or the cooling system breaks down.
• The loading process can take a long time due to pre-cooling requirements. The unloading process can also be a time consumer.
• If you don&#;t have access to tracking trailer conditions, you won&#;t know what&#;s happening to the shipment.
• Spoiled freight. A breakdown in the temperature window can cost money, but grocery stores and businesses will not accept items that are not the correct temperature or sour.

What are the pros and cons of trailer types for carriers?

Dry Van Trailer

Pros

• Dry van trailers are versatile and used for all kinds of freight, ranging from non-perishable food to building materials.
• Cargo is secure and protected from bad weather, damage, and theft, so you don&#;t need to use straps, chains, or another cover.
• &#;Drop and Hook&#; (drop an empty trailer, hook up to a loaded one) &#; load mode will save drivers time and effort and allow them to spend less time unloading and loading.
• Many dry van trucking companies provide regional and short hauls in addition to long hauls.

Cons

• Sometimes, a driver must help handle freight during the unloading process.
• Waiting at the dock for load/unload will consume a carrier&#;s time and money.
• Hardwood floors in most dry van trailers are vulnerable to moisture from freight or open doors, limiting the trailer&#;s life span.
• Dry van drivers earn, on average, 20% less pay per hour compared to flatbed drivers, so turnover is high.

Flatbed Trailer

Pros

• Flatbed drivers earn more per mile than most other trailer types, which helps driver turnover.
• There are many opportunities for pick-up and delivery each week.
• Flatbed drivers don&#;t need to back into docks and unload the freight.
• The demand for flatbed drivers&#; unique skills is high, often leading to high rates.

Cons

• Transporting oversized loads requires particular hauling and maneuvering skills.
• The flatbed driver has a responsibility to secure loads properly. Poorly secured freight is a threat to the driver and other motorists.
• Climbing over oversized loads to attach chains and straps can be dangerous.
• Hauling and securing oversized loads is extremely complicated during severe weather conditions.

Refrigerated Trailer

Pros

• There is always a demand for fresh products and a refrigerated truck to transport them.
• Reefer trailers can easily haul both refrigerated and dry goods.
• Refrigerated trailers haul long, coast-to-coast distances, which can mean more profit.
• Freight gets protected from weather conditions, theft, spoilage, and damage.

Cons

• Refrigerated truck drivers have additional responsibilities like cleaning the trailer after every load, controlling the thermometer and cooling equipment, and filling the second gas tank with fuel.
• There&#;s constant noise from the motor.
• Long wait time on shipping docks for loading or unloading is typical.
• Breakdowns lead to unavoidable product spoilage.

PLS Logistics and our Carrier Network

We dedicate our time to making a fast and reliable marketplace and network for all our carriers. We&#;re the company for you if you&#;re looking for an efficient way to boost your network. Your business will soar when you join us today!

It&#;s essential to consider all possibilities whenever you decide which trailer might be the best fit for your shipment. PLS Logistics supports all trailer types with a network of over 55,000 carriers, making us the number one flatbed 3PL in the country.

Get a quote today for your trailer needs!

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