According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average age of a commercial truck driver in the United States is 55 years old and because so many drivers are now nearing retirement, the industry is working to attract younger drivers and more female drivers. Currently, the trucking industry needs to hire an estimated 900,000 additional drivers to fulfill the need for transporting goods throughout the country. Many companies are upping their offers and adding new perks: higher salaries, insurance benefits, newer vehicles, and more.

You’ve Got Options

There are so many options when it comes to the commercial trucking industry. You can choose to drive in your local area, a regional area, or “over-the-road.” Each type of driving has its own pros and cons:

• Local: Local drivers have the luxury of sleeping in their own bed every night. If you choose this type of driving, you may have the same route every day and maintain the same customers. If you have a family and appreciate knowing exactly what you’ll be doing each day, then local commercial driving could be a great fit for you.
• Regional: Regional drivers have the best of both worlds with a few nights away and the remainder at home. You get to drive through several states around your home state, so you see different routes and different topography. You’ll probably have some of the same clients, but you won’t deliver to them every day. You’ll still have time for the family and can regale them with your tales on the road.
• Over the Road: Over-the-Road drivers have the possibility of seeing a good bit of the country. Their schedules cause them to be away from home for weeks at a time due to covering so many miles. This job is great if you are single, love to travel, or if you find driving to be pleasant. The changing scenery across your windshield beats the inside of a gray office cubicle any day!

In addition to several types of driving, there are many different types of trailers you may haul as well: dry van, refrigerated freight, flat beds, tankers, and the list goes on. If you know how to drive certain vehicles or transport special cargo, your extra knowledge will often increase your salary.

Less Cost, Great Salary

In light of college costs, it’s often more economical to learn a trade; and while commercial truck driving schools may be several thousand for tuition, they don’t come anywhere near the cost of a college education. And once you learn to drive a commercial truck and have your license you can go anywhere in the country and make a good salary – often starting around $50,000.

Since the economy is holding strong, it only makes sense that truckers would be in demand to deliver products. More jobs are available, and the trucking industry has started taking a cue from other businesses and giving drivers incentives like sign-on bonuses in addition to the other perks mentioned above.

More Diverse Drivers

The driver shortage has brought with it a couple new types of trucker – females and military veterans. Unlike many industries in the news these days, the trucking industry offers fair salaries regardless of gender, and an opportunity for higher earnings.

Military veterans becoming truck drivers is a brilliant solution! Such a valuable portion of our society is a perfect fit for this type of work since many veterans are already trained in driving heavy and Class-8 vehicles. Both of these groups, females and military veterans, are among the safest drivers.

Increased Demand

Due to increased shipping demand many trucking fleets will expand in 2018. Some plan to expand 50 percent over the course of the year. Once you get started in a trucking career, the longer you are in the job and the more endorsements you have on your CDL, the more money you can make each year.

Work for Waller

To sum up, the trucking industry is making improvements to fill the need for drivers including higher salaries, benefits, and more home time. At Waller Truck Co., Inc. we’re a family owned company with close to 60 years in business. When you drive with Waller Truck Co., Inc. we provide lots of perks:

• Competitive pay
• Insurance benefits including medical, dental, and vision
• Loads are 100% no touch
• No trucks older than 2014
• More time at home

If you’re looking for a terrific job with superior pay, consider becoming a truck driver. It’s a skill you can take with you throughout the country as you meet new people, enjoy life on the road, and the new view you get from your office window each day. Apply for a job with Waller Truck Co., Inc. We’re hiring now! Contact us or call toll free 1-800-821-2196.