Truck driver compensation varies due to experience, load difficulty, driving record, risk tolerance, and remote travel. The average US truck driver salary is $83,158 annually, but it varies by truck type. Hazmat drivers transporting dangerous materials, for instance, operate with greater care due to the increased risks such as the potential need for town evacuation and the consequences of accidents, like casualties or environmental damage.
High-Paying Trucking Jobs
High paying truck jobs usually belong to niche markets that require more experience than the average driver earning $60k or less yearly. The top earning drivers are often attracted to over-the-road trucking, which involves traveling long distances and spending weeks away from family. This job requires a strong knowledge of regulations and is usually the domain of specialized truck drivers, including those who handle hazardous materials such as flammable or corrosive substances.
Top 5 Lucrative Trucking Opportunities:
- Flatbed Hauler Owner Operator
- Ice-Road Truck Driver – up to $210,000 annually
- Tanker/Hazmat Hauling
Earning Potential
Pay for truck driving jobs varies significantly. Experience, clean records, willingness to take risks, and travel to remote locations can all contribute to a higher income. Specialized training and equipment are often necessary for the jobs with the highest pay. Running your own business as an independent owner-operator often has the highest money-making potential, but involves business risks and responsibilities.
Ice road trucking and oversized load hauling are some of the specialized categories that offer higher pay due to the skill and experience required to handle difficult weather conditions and heavy or large freight, respectively.
Salary Expectations:
- Starting rates: Approximately $700-$800 weekly
- With experience: $47,000-$58,000 annually
- Heavy load drivers in 2022: Averaged $53,090 yearly, with the top 10% earning over $75,220
Specialized skills and endorsements can lead to even higher pay.