This post is written for our readers in the US, however it still contains useful information for anyone reading around the world.
Truck driving is one of the most popular professions in the world. Every year, tens of thousands of new truck drivers take to the roads to deliver everything from new cars to potatoes. They are the very lifeblood of the economy.
But being a truck driver isn’t just about being able to drive. It’s like any other trade, with things that drivers are just expected to know. The following are things you need to know if you want a career on the road.
Training
Officially, there isn’t any requirement for budding truck drivers to undergo training. But because they are in charge of expensive equipment, training is something many employers want to see. Most serious applicants already have some solid truck driving training under their belts. And, as a result, they’ll already have some knowledge of how large vehicles work and how they should be operated.
You will, of course, need a CDL license. But there’s a world of difference between getting this by passing the exam and being trained by the best. Like any job, you’ll want to make sure that you’re learning from the best so that you know you’re on the right track.
Starting Salary And Benefits
The amount that you’ll get paid as a truck driver will depend on many factors. The first is where you live. Different parts of the country have different labor markets. And so remuneration will vary from region to region. Your pay will also depend on where you’re travelling. Travelling between states pays differently to moving within states. Obviously, your salary will start at the lower end – at around $30,000. But with experience and time, it can rise. Remember, this is a wage you can earn with as little as one month’s training.
With more experience and a licence to drive Class A vehicles, your starting pay could go up to more than $40,000.
Risk Of Injury And Health Consequences
Truck driving is not without its drawbacks. One of the biggest drawbacks is simply the dangers of the road itself. You’ll want to build a relationship with a truck accident attorney should you be involved in a collision. You’ll also want the law on your side if you happen to suffer as a result of exposure to cargo. Often, as a driver, you’ll be asked to ship hazardous materials, and this can damage your health.
Finally, the very nature of the job makes it potentially dangerous to your health. Your work will involve mainly extended periods of sitting, followed by sudden bouts of activity. And if you’re somebody with a history of heart disease, this can be deadly.
Career Prospects And Benefits
Starting salaries might be middling. But the benefits can soon stack up. Many trucking companies offer both health and dental cover. And many of the larger companies also give their drivers the option to pay into a 401k. Other benefits include paid vacations and extra time off the longer you work for the enterprise. After five to seven years in the field, you can expect to be paid around $55,000 a year.
Are you considering a career on the road? Let us know in the comments below.
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