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Introduction
If you’re thinking about becoming a commercial truck driver, one of the first questions you might ask is how much money you can expect to make. The answer to that question can vary depending on a number of factors, including your location, the type of trucking job you have, and your level of experience. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the average salaries for commercial truck drivers and what factors can affect your earning potential.
What is a CDL?
A CDL, or commercial driver’s license, is a special license that is required to operate certain types of vehicles, including tractor-trailers, buses, and other large commercial vehicles. To obtain a CDL, you must pass a written exam and a skills test that evaluates your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle. Once you have your CDL, you can begin working as a commercial truck driver.
Factors That Affect CDL Salaries
There are a number of factors that can affect how much money you can expect to make as a commercial truck driver. Some of the most important factors include:
- Your level of experience
- The type of trucking job you have
- Your location
- The company you work for
Experience
As with many jobs, the more experience you have as a commercial truck driver, the more money you can expect to make. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers was $45,260 in May 2019. However, the top 10% of earners in this field made more than $66,840 per year.
Type of Trucking Job
Another important factor that can impact your earning potential as a commercial truck driver is the type of job you have. For example, drivers who transport hazardous materials or oversized loads may earn more money than those who transport standard freight. Additionally, some trucking jobs may require you to be away from home for extended periods of time, which can impact your earnings.
Location
Your location can also play a role in how much money you can expect to make as a commercial truck driver. Some areas of the country may have higher demand for truck drivers, which can lead to higher salaries. Additionally, some states may have higher costs of living, which can impact your overall earning potential.
Company
The company you work for can also have a significant impact on your earnings. Some trucking companies may pay their drivers higher salaries or offer bonuses for meeting certain performance metrics. Additionally, some companies may offer better benefits packages, which can impact your overall compensation.
Types of CDL Jobs
There are a number of different types of CDL jobs available, each with its own set of requirements and earning potential. Some of the most common types of CDL jobs include:
- Long haul trucking
- Local delivery
- Flatbed trucking
- Tanker trucking
- Refrigerated trucking
Long Haul Trucking
Long haul trucking involves transporting goods across long distances, often between different regions of the country. This type of job can require you to be away from home for extended periods of time, but it can also offer higher earning potential.
Local Delivery
Local delivery jobs involve transporting goods within a specific geographic region, such as a city or metropolitan area. This type of job may require you to make multiple stops throughout the day, but it can also offer more predictable hours and schedules.
Flatbed Trucking
Flatbed trucking involves transporting large, oversized loads that cannot be transported in standard enclosed trailers. This type of job can require specialized training and equipment, but it can also offer higher earning potential.
Tanker Trucking
Tanker trucking involves transporting liquids or gases, such as petroleum or hazardous materials. This type of job can require additional training and certification, but it can also offer higher earning potential.
Refrigerated Trucking
Refrigerated trucking involves transporting goods that require temperature-controlled environments, such as food or pharmaceuticals. This type of job may require additional training and equipment, but it can also offer higher earning potential.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are a number of factors that can impact how much money you can expect to make as a commercial truck driver. However, with the right training and experience, you can earn a good living in this field. Whether you’re interested in long haul trucking or local delivery, there are plenty of CDL jobs available that offer competitive salaries and benefits.