Introduction
Truck driving is one of the most common professions in the United States, with more than 3.5 million truck drivers currently employed. But how much do truck drivers make? That depends on a variety of factors, including location, experience level, type of employer, and type of truck. In this article, we’ll explore the average salary for truck drivers, benefits and bonuses they may receive, and tips for negotiating a higher salary. We’ll also look at the best-paying truck driving jobs.
How Much Money Do Truck Drivers Make?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median salary for all heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers in 2019 was $43,680 per year, or $20.98 per hour. That’s slightly higher than the median salary for all occupations in the U.S., which was $39,810 in 2019.
The average salary for truck drivers varies depending on the type of employer. For example, truck drivers working for private carriers typically make more money than those working for government employers. Private carriers pay an average of $47,955 per year, while government employers pay an average of $41,737 per year.
In addition to their base salary, truck drivers may receive bonuses and other benefits. According to PayScale, some truck drivers receive performance bonuses of up to $1,500 per year, as well as profit sharing and other incentives. Some companies offer additional benefits such as health insurance and 401(k) retirement plans.
Factors That Affect Truck Driver Salaries
The amount a truck driver makes depends on several factors, including:
Location
Where a truck driver works can have a big impact on their salary. According to the BLS, the highest-paying states for truck drivers in 2019 were Alaska ($66,640), Massachusetts ($63,390), and Connecticut ($61,890). The lowest-paying states were Mississippi ($31,800), South Dakota ($33,490), and West Virginia ($34,230).
Experience Level
Truck drivers with more experience tend to make more money. The BLS reports that entry-level truck drivers make an average of $29,000 per year, while experienced drivers make an average of $58,000 per year.
Type of Employer
As mentioned above, truck drivers who work for private carriers typically make more money than those who work for government employers. Other types of employers, such as local trucking companies and freight brokers, also pay different amounts.
Type of Truck
The type of truck a driver operates can also affect their salary. Tanker truck drivers, for example, tend to make more money than drivers of other types of trucks. Local delivery drivers may also make more money than long-haul truck drivers.
How to Negotiate a Higher Truck Driver Salary
Truck drivers who want to negotiate a higher salary should follow these steps:
Research Your Market Value
Before negotiating, it’s important to research what other truck drivers in your area are making. Sites such as Glassdoor and Indeed can help you get an idea of the average salary for truck drivers in your region.
Talk to Other Truck Drivers
Talking to other truck drivers can also give you insight into what kind of salary you could earn. Ask them about their experiences, and find out what kind of salary they were able to negotiate.
Negotiate with Confidence
When you’re ready to negotiate, make sure to do so with confidence. Be prepared to back up your request with data from your research and examples of your experience. It’s also important to be flexible and willing to compromise.
The Best-Paying Truck Driving Jobs
If you’re looking for a job that pays well, consider one of these truck driving positions:
Tanker Truck Drivers
Tanker truck drivers transport liquids, such as gasoline, oil, and chemicals. These drivers typically make more money than other types of truck drivers because they require specialized training and skills. The BLS reports that the median salary for tanker truck drivers in 2019 was $50,400.
Local Delivery Drivers
Local delivery drivers make short trips within a certain radius. These drivers typically make more money than long-haul truck drivers because they don’t have to spend as much time on the road. The BLS reports that the median salary for local delivery drivers in 2019 was $39,710.
Long-Haul Truck Drivers
Long-haul truck drivers make trips that last for days or even weeks. These drivers often make less money than other types of truck drivers because of the long hours and time away from home. The BLS reports that the median salary for long-haul truck drivers in 2019 was $42,480.
Conclusion
Truck driving can be a lucrative career option. The average salary for truck drivers in the U.S. is $43,680 per year, but that number can vary based on factors such as location, experience level, type of employer, and type of truck. Truck drivers may also receive benefits and bonuses, and can negotiate a higher salary by researching their market value and talking to other truck drivers. The best-paying truck driving jobs include tanker truck drivers, local delivery drivers, and long-haul truck drivers.
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