Lifestyle

Semi-Truck Driver Gifts for Every Budget

Looking for a gift to appreciate your trucker friends and family this holiday season but unsure what to get? We’ve got you covered.

Because of the long hours most truck drivers spend away from their loved ones, they cherish gifts that simplify their on-the-road lifestyle and make them feel close to home. These could be devices that promote their health, safety, and comfort or customized ornaments that cheer them up when driving long distances.

We’ve prepared a list of our top truck driver gifts for every budget to help you pick the perfect gift for your favorite trucker.

Creative Truck Driver Gifts

For creative truck driver gifts, go for simple items engraved with hearty messages or handmade crafts. They transform a truck into a heartwarming space and make truck drivers light up whenever they use or look at them.

Here are a few unique gift ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

1. Customized Stainless Steel Tumblers

Getting plain stainless steel tumblers customized with your favorite trucker’s name and a personal message is an ideal way to celebrate the truck drivers in your life.

Most truck drivers need tumblers to stay hydrated when on the road for extended periods. By adding a simple personal message to it, you make the truck driver in your life feel more seen and appreciated. Simple inscriptions like ‘best trucker dad ever’ or ‘thinking of you always: keep on truckin’ under their name will do.

2. Personalized Polarized Sunglasses

For truck drivers, polarized sunglasses are a stylish item and a needed protective gear. A good pair filters out light in a way that protects a truck driver’s eyes from excess exposure to direct sunlight while still allowing them to see the road.

Encase the polarized sunglasses in a beautiful, handmade, preferably wooden gift box with the trucker’s initials to make the gift more personal. You may have to order the glasses and the case separately, but the effort will be worth it.

3. Custom Trucker Portrait

Custom trucker portraits are a fun, unique, and budget-friendly gift idea, especially if you go for cartoon portraits. You’ll require a high-quality photo of the truck driver for this, and the final cartoon-like drawing will be perfect for printing on various media, including any canvases, posters, plain t-shirts, hoodies, key chains, etc.

It’s best to frame the truckers’ cartoon replica and strategically hang it on the truck’s roof. It will put a warm smile on their face whenever they see it.

4. Bespoke Metal Trucker Sign

If the truck driver in your life is an owner-operator, a custom-made metal truck sign with an image of their big rig, business name, and company logo makes a great gift. Owner-operators can place the gift inside the truck or outside, depending on their preferences. Metal trucker signs last for years, and your favorite truckers will be well-pleased every time they see their business name on display.

Practical Truck Driver Gifts

Practical truck driver gifts show you understand the challenges of truck driving and care enough to get your favorite trucker something that will make their job more manageable. The following gifts often go the extra mile to ensure truck drivers remain safe, comfortable, healthy, and at ease on the job:

5. Memory Foam Sleeping Gear

Truckers drive for long hours, most logging in up to eleven hours at a time. They need quality sleep to reset and keep moving. Memory foam mattresses can give them the cradling comfort they require to recharge. These mattresses conform to the trucker’s body shape, responding to their body heat while relieving pressure.

Consider purchasing a memory foam mattress to help your truck driver get the good night’s sleep they need and undoubtedly deserve. Specifically, get the memory foam mattresses designed to fit into the sleeper area of most trucks if you choose this option. You may include memory foam pillows and an electric heated throw blanket in this trucker gift package to help your trucker sleep soundly through cold nights.

6. Ergonomic Seat

As a trucker gift, ergonomic seats fall on the pricey side, but they’re worth every penny. They help prevent bad back pain, which affects most professional truck drivers. Most ergonomic seats for truck drivers also help relieve ligament strains and muscle tension, prevent spinal disc degeneration, and improve blood circulation.

There are several seat options to choose from. Check out our top 6 semi-truck seats for back pain to find the perfect gift for your trucker.

Credit: Amazon

If you prefer a more affordable back pain relieving gift for semi-truckers, get a gel foam seat cushion. It absorbs road shock and vibrations, providing firm back support and reducing back pain. The right semi-truck seat cushion also helps long-haul truckers maintain proper driving posture.

Here’s a quick guide with our top picks for the best semi-truck seat cushions to help you find the perfect seat cushion for your truck-driving friends and family.

7. Compression Socks And Gloves

Compression socks are the ideal gifts for long-haul truckers. They are clinically proven to improve blood flow and prevent leg pain from sitting behind the steering wheel for too long. Compression socks also minimize the risk of blood clotting in the trucker’s legs. They’re a must-have item for long-haul trucking.

A good pair of hand gloves is another excellent gift for long-haul truckers. Hand gloves are helpful when the steering wheel gets hot after long driving hours.

8. Instant Pot & Other Kitchen Items

Finding well-cooked hot meals can be a real hassle for most truckers. Many prefer quick fixes, like on-the-go fast food, because they’re often in new, unfamiliar territories, and finding good restaurants can be time-consuming. An instant pot to help truck drivers prepare their food can make a big difference in a trucker’s life.

Besides enjoying nutritious hot meals similar to home-cooked food, truckers save money since buying food from restaurants is almost always more expensive than cooking.

Additional kitchen items to consider purchasing as gifts for your truck drivers include:

A cooler or portable mini fridge to keep all food items, like fruits, cool and fresh
Portable espresso maker for caffeine-loving truckers to make and keep their coffee hot with minimal effort

9. Hands-Free Devices

Hands-free devices keep truck drivers safe. They are great gifts to help truckers avoid distracted driving and stay focused on the road. Some essential hands-free devices you can purchase include:

GPS device – some big rig drivers, particularly those new to the trucking industry, need a hands-free GPS device to know where they’re going without getting their eyes off the road.

Alternatively, you can consider a hands-free driving display, which reflects directions from a truck driver’s phone onto a translucent surface. These are relatively more affordable than GPS devices.

A hands-free wireless headset – hands-free wireless headsets help truck drivers stay connected with customers, friends, and family without interfering with their jobs.
A wide-angle dash cam – a dashboard camera is handy when trying to prove fault after an accident. The best dash cam should capture clear images at a nearly 180° visibility range day and night.

Credit: Amazon

Anti-sleep Alarm

An anti-sleep alarm is a life-saving gift for drivers and all other road users. It detects drowsiness and fatigue, then alerts the truck driver to stop and rest, preventing them from falling asleep behind the wheel.

Trucker Storage Items

Compact storage items allow truck drivers to organize their space, making them more efficient at their jobs. For example, a front seat organizer on the passenger seat helps truck drivers keep everything they need during trips within reach. These may be registration documents, clipboards, maps, phone chargers, emergency flashlights, you name it.

You could also get your trucker a portable diversion safe to help them store their valuable items safely.

Gift Cards

Prepaid gift cards make it easy for truckers to buy things at a truck stop. They’re also safer for truck drivers to carry around than cards. You’ll never go wrong with this option.
Multi-tool Extractor

An extractor is a critical all-in-one tool all truck drivers require. They’re helpful during emergencies. Drivers can use the laser-sharp blade to cut any seat belt fast and the glass-breaking tack to shatter windows when needed.

All-Purpose First Aid Kit

An all-purpose first aid kit contains over 250 ways a truck driver can handle minor injuries and health issues in transit. It is one of the most affordable, helpful gifts you can get for any trucker.

Final Thoughts

Truck drivers keep America moving. They are the reason we’re all well-supplied with household necessities, groceries, and other deliveries. When choosing gifts for truck drivers, consider the item’s durability and how it improves the trucker’s life.

Also, add a personal touch to every gift by including simple appreciation notes. This way, the truckers in your life will know their hard work and sacrifice don’t go unnoticed.

To get more gift ideas for truckers, visit our blog. We have several gift guides to help you find thoughtful gifts for different occasions. You can check out this guide on the top Father’s Day gifts for truckers for more truck driver gift ideas.

Salary Structure for Amazon Semi Truck Drivers

Commercial truck drivers can do many things– including working for Amazon. There’s always a strong demand for Amazon truck driver jobs.

Whether you’re an owner-operator or are looking for consistent employment, then handling deliveries for Amazon could be a good option.

Let’s explore what you can expect from a job as an Amazon semi-truck driver and how much these drivers typically make.

Amazon Class A Truck Driver Earnings: An Overview

Thinking of becoming an Amazon truck driver? There are plenty of work opportunities in this field, and there are various options for being a delivery driver.

While salaries for Amazon delivery employees can vary based on many different factors, here are some key insights on how much commercial truck driving positions pay at Amazon.

Starting Pay for Amazon Class A Truck Drivers

Like any commercial truck driver salary, the starting pay for Class A truck drivers at Amazon can vary based on several factors, including location, experience, and the specific job role.

In general, Amazon Class A truck drivers can expect to earn a competitive salary that may include benefits and other compensation packages. The estimated total pay for a Class A Truck Driver at Amazon is $68,977 per year. Remember that this is a rough estimate, and pay rates may differ.

To get the most accurate and current information about starting pay for Amazon Class A truck drivers, visit the Amazon jobs website.

Maximum Pay Potential for Amazon Class A Truck Drivers

An Amazon semi-truck driver’s salary can vary greatly depending on where the driver operates, how frequently they drive, what level of experience they hold, and so on.

According to ZipRecruiter, the top pay level for Amazon truck driver jobs is $87k per year. This is a significant increase from the lower level of $55k per year that some Amazon truck driver jobs offer.

It’s important to note that most drivers earn somewhere in the middle. As with any job, your first year will probably yield lower pay than an employee who has been with the company for a more extended time.

Hourly Pay Rates for CDL Drivers at Amazon

Most Amazon truck driver jobs are paid hourly. This is one of the main factors why Amazon delivery service partners can earn significantly varying amounts.

According to ZipRecruiter, the average hourly pay for an Amazon CDL Driver in the United States is $36.16. However, as mentioned above, delivery drivers with a CDL license can earn varying amounts depending on their experience, the CDL class, and more.

Of course, overtime rates per week should also be considered, as CDL drivers often have to work extra hours.

Many drivers work for Amazon full-time, while some Amazon CDL drivers are strictly part-time. This could affect the driver’s pay.

Compensation for Loading and Unloading Tasks by Amazon Class A Truck Drivers

There are many different tasks and responsibilities involved in the trucking industry. Beyond simply driving deliveries, you can also work on various loading and unloading tasks. Employers like Amazon pay truck drivers specifically for these tasks.

As already mentioned, the compensation for loading and unloading tasks for Amazon Class A truck drivers can vary based on various factors, including the specific job role, location, and whether the driver is responsible for these tasks. In some cases, CDL drivers will have dedicated unloaders.

In other cases, Amazon may offer additional compensation, such as bonuses or hourly pay differentials, for loading and unloading tasks. However, not all Class A truck driver positions at Amazon require drivers to perform these tasks.

Some positions may involve drop-and-hook operations, where the driver’s primary responsibility is to transport goods between Amazon facilities and not necessarily handle loading and unloading.

If you are considering job opportunities as an Amazon truck driver, be sure to review specific job listings for precise details. Most positions typically offer a competitive starting salary, overtime rates, and a comprehensive benefits package.

Sign-On Bonuses for Amazon Class A Truck Drivers

Sign-on bonuses for Amazon Class A truck drivers can be offered as part of their compensation package, and the amount of the bonus can vary depending on factors such as location, job role, and current hiring needs. These bonuses are typically provided to attract and retain qualified drivers.

The specific amounts and eligibility criteria of sign-on bonuses can change. According to some recent job postings on Indeed, Amazon sign-on bonuses can vary from around $1000 to $3000. This will change depending on whether you’re a yard driver, delivery van driver, CDL driver, etc.

The best way to find the most up-to-date information regarding sign-on bonuses for Amazon Class A truck drivers is to visit Amazon’s official jobs website or contact their human resources department. They will be able to provide details about any current sign-on bonus offers and the requirements for eligibility.

Keep in mind that bonus amounts and availability can vary by location and may change over time, so it’s essential to check with Amazon directly for the most accurate and current information.

Bonuses for Amazon Class A Truck Drivers: What to Expect

Bonuses for Amazon Class A truck drivers can vary depending on job role, location, and current hiring needs. Amazon may offer various types of bonuses to attract and retain qualified drivers.

While specific bonus amounts and eligibility criteria may change over time, here are some general types of bonuses that Amazon drivers might expect.

Sign-On Bonuses

Amazon may offer sign-on bonuses to incentivize new truck drivers to join the company. The amount can vary based on the position and location.

Sign-on bonuses are typically paid out after the driver completes a specified period of employment.

Performance Bonuses

Drivers who meet or exceed performance targets, such as on-time deliveries or safety metrics, may be eligible for performance bonuses.

These bonuses can serve as an additional incentive for drivers to excel.

Referral Bonuses

Amazon may have a referral program that rewards current employees, including truck drivers, for referring qualified candidates. If you refer someone who gets hired and meets specific criteria, you could receive a referral bonus.

Retention Bonuses

In some cases, Amazon may offer retention bonuses to encourage experienced drivers to stay with the company for an extended period. These bonuses are typically paid out at predetermined intervals.

Safety Bonuses

Amazon places a strong emphasis on safety. Truck drivers who maintain a safe driving record and adhere to safety protocols may be eligible for safety-related bonuses.

Overtime Pay in the Compensation Package for Amazon Class A Truck Drivers

Overtime pay is an important component of the compensation package for Amazon Class A truck drivers, as it provides additional compensation for hours worked beyond the standard 40-hour workweek.

Amazon, like many other employers, is typically required to pay overtime in accordance with federal and state labor laws in the United States.

The standard practice in the United States for most non-exempt employees, including truck drivers, is to receive overtime pay at a rate of 1.5 times their regular hourly wage for each hour worked more than 40 hours in a workweek.

Remember that specific policies and rates may vary depending on factors like location, employment contract, and union agreements, among others. Amazon typically adheres to labor laws and industry standards for compensating its employees, but the exact details of overtime pay can be subject to change.

Benefits Package for Amazon Class A Truck Drivers

Amazon typically offers a comprehensive benefits package to its Class A truck drivers. Here are some of the common benefits that Amazon Class A truck drivers could expect:

Health Insurance: Amazon often provides medical, dental, and vision insurance options for its employees, including truck drivers.
401(k) Retirement Plan: Many Amazon employees, including truck drivers, may have access to a 401(k) plan with a company match. This allows employees to save for retirement with the benefit of employer contributions.
Paid Time Off: Amazon typically offers paid time off (PTO) that may include vacation days, personal days, and holidays. The amount of PTO can depend on years of service and job role.
Employee Assistance Program: Amazon often provides an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support employees in various aspects of their lives, such as counseling, legal assistance, and financial advice.
Discounts: Amazon employees, including truck drivers, may be eligible for discounts on Amazon products and services.

Final Thoughts

Amazon truck driver jobs can vary greatly depending on various factors. However, there’s always money to be made through this employment option. The good news is that Amazon truck drivers can also be found in all locations nationwide – from Salt Lake City to New York and everywhere in between!

Owner-operators interested in these positions may need to purchase their own semi-truck first. Get in touch with us at Mission Financial Services, where we can help you secure easy financing for your commercial vehicle.

Semi-Truck Christmas Decoration Ideas

The holidays are around the corner. The festive season is the busiest time for most truckers as retail and grocery deliveries increase nationwide. But just because you’ll likely be on the road during this season doesn’t mean you should miss the holiday fun.

You can participate in the holiday cheer by decorating your truck with various semi-truck Christmas decorations. Here are a few semi-truck Christmas decoration ideas to help you get into the festive spirit and bring the warmth of the holidays wherever you go.

Best Semi-Truck Christmas Decoration Ideas

First things first, you need to clean your semi-truck before you consider decorating it. This will give you an idea of how much space you have to work with. It will also improve the appearance of your semi-truck and make your Christmas decorations pop. The decorations will also hold up longer when placed on a clean surface.

To prep your truck, remove any leftover debris, like food wrappers and empty drink containers, before wiping or washing all interior and exterior surfaces. Once your vehicle is ready for a festive makeover, choose an idea below and give it a personal touch.

Decorating Inside

Pick a holiday theme for your truck’s interior and spruce up the entire place as you would your home. You can go with fresh greenery, hand-made décor, or an intricate combination of both. Generally, the more customized your decorations are, the more cheerful, relaxing, and closer to home they’ll feel. Here are a few fun ideas to inspire you.

Get Holiday-themed Mats and Seat Covers

Embrace the season by getting holiday-themed seat covers, mats, blankets, and pillows. Go for the regular red and white Santa colors, festive greens, or detailed plaid patterns. They’ll introduce the joy of the season into your semi-truck.

You can also hang Christmas stockings with ribbons on the sides of the bed in your sleeper area. Have them customized with your names or those of your loved ones to make your truck feel like an extension of your home.

Also, create extra sparkle on your stockings and make them unique with a few tassels and a tiny spiral evergreen shrub. These are easy to find at your local decor shop; setting them up takes a few minutes.

Most long-haul drivers prefer hanging customized stockings on the sides of their seats or the passenger’s seat. Usually, they’ll add candy cane posts with a twisted texture and small gifts in the stocking to delight in the giving nature of the season.

Light it Up

Nothing screams Christmas-is-here more than lights arranged in various shapes and patterns. There are two main ways to introduce the Christmas glow into your semi-truck:

Adding the traditional string lights: String lights bring your semi-truck from zero to festive within a few steps. They work well around the cab, windows, and the sleeper area. You’ll need a power inverter for them to work, though. So make sure you have everything set up correctly.

Adding LED light strips: If you don’t have a power inverter, use LED light strips instead. Most run on li-on batteries and don’t require an inverter. They also have adhesive backs and are easy to apply or set up. Removing them after the festive season is equally easy as you can peel them off without damaging your truck.

If you’re not a fan of string lights running through your cab, find glass lanterns and fill them with LED twinkle lights. Then, place them on a surface in your sleeper berth or hang them on the side “walls.” You’ll still experience the warm glow of the season this way.

Add Boughs of Holly

Bring the tranquility and freshness of nature into your truck with December’s birth flower – the evergreen holly plant. You can create boughs of holly in varying shapes and sizes, then place them on different surfaces in your truck. When doing this, let your imagination run wild.

Mix the holly with other flowers to create perfect floral arrangements running from one end of your surfaces to the other. It could be your dashboard or the kitchen section.

You can also make classic holiday wreath centerpieces with holly, golden-colored pine cones and well-tied ribbons. These look great on stand-out plain sections in your sleeper berth.

Mix Greens and Glitter

Combine your green holly decorations with shiny metallic garland. It adds a touch of glam to your space and makes it jolly.

If you prefer, switch things up and have fresh green garland mixed with holly berries running through your cab, window, or sleeper area. Some drivers use these as their surface for string lights. They wrap the lights around the garland before letting it run through the truck like a string moving from corner to corner.

You can also have the garland and lights around the door of the sleeper section or let them drape over a hanging gift basket in one or more corners of your truck. Just ensure they don’t block your view when driving.

Most drivers love the scent of fresh all-green garlands inside their trucks, but if you’d rather not have this, go for faux leaves or paper garlands. Fake garland leaves are easy to find in your local décor store or Amazon.

Take the DIY route for paper garlands to create the most unique designs. You’ll need paper, various watercolors, or paint and brushes, but the effort will be worth it. Make this a fun family activity to bond with your loved ones and create the perfect home-away-from-home environment with hand-made décor from the family.

Use Christmas Ornaments

Christmas ornaments are a staple semi-truck Christmas decoration for truckers. They are budget-friendly and can pass as great gifts to fellow truck drivers.

Most semi-truck ornaments are also a low-key way to create the holiday mood and often last for years. They are the go-to Christmas decorations for company drivers who can’t go all out on their truck Christmas décor due to restrictions from their employers.

Semi-truck ornaments include small tractor-trailer models you can place on your dashboard or hang on the roof of your cab. You could also get 3D images of your truck engraved in star-shaped porcelain and hang them visibly in the driver’s area.

There’s also the DIY option, where you can create several Christmas ornaments using materials available in your home and local art shops. You may, for instance, create snow globes using glass jars, bottle brushes, fake snow, and glitters. Or craft 3D felt ornaments using festive green, white, and splashes of red holiday colors.

Put Up A Christmas Tree

Yes, you can put up a Christmas tree inside your truck. It won’t be the same as the Christmas tree in your home, but it can still jazz up your space and complete your festive look.

Here are a few simple ideas to set up a tree with Christmas ornaments inside your truck:

Christmas card tree: Display your cards as a tree to form a Christmas card tree. It will look great on one of the walls in your sleeper berth (preferably the one closest to your bed). The size of your Christmas card tree will depend on the number of cards you get.

If you have too many cards, tie a few fresh green pine garlands to a wooden hanger and clip your extra cards on the greens to display them on a different wall. Ensure it’s within reach so you can continue adding more cards as they arrive throughout the season.

Dashboard Christmas tree: Get a dashboard Christmas tree to place on your dashboard. They resemble a tabletop tree but are way smaller. Alternatively, you can find a small twig tree and add hand-crafted décor to make it special.

Decorating Outside

On the outside, go all in on the trailer’s sides but easy on the front and back sides. Avoid placing bright lights or lights that can mess with your truck’s signal lights because it will confuse other drivers and may cause havoc. It could also be against the law in your state and might land you in trouble.

So make sure you check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles to confirm your city’s truck decorations rules before proceeding. You may also want to check with your insurance provider to ensure you are on the same page. Most insurers consider external truck Christmas décor a modification that invalidates your cover.

Large ribbons, floral wreaths, or simple holiday messages will do for the front (on the truck grill) and back parts.

But on the sides, free the creative artist in you and work with lights and evergreen garlands. The more the merrier, provided your truck can handle it. You don’t want to run down your battery’s power prematurely with too many lights. To save energy and avoid being on the wrong side of the law, consider having these lights on at strategic times only.

You can also put smiles on the faces of those who see you driving by telling a story with conspicuous Christmas figures like Santa, elves, and reindeer with glitter antlers or noses. Include cheerful holiday messages, too. This space is your canvas; use it to spread holiday love and joy throughout this wonderful time of the year.

Final Thoughts

Decorating your truck for Christmas is different from decorating for other holidays like Halloween. Halloween has an air of mystery, but Christmas is all about merry-making – the brighter, the better.

Even so, always put your safety and the safety of other road users first. Stay away from decorations that block your view when driving or stand in the way of other drivers. Also, steer clear of dangerous decorations like candles. They are a fire hazard in your truck.

If you’re looking for holiday gifts for friends and family who love trucking, go for Christmas ornaments with engraved personal messages. They’ll appreciate the gesture and can reuse the decorations year after year.

For more gift suggestions, check out our blog. We have several gift ideas for truckers to help you celebrate these unsung heroes who keep our country moving.

What Different Jobs Do Commercial Truck Drivers Do?

Understanding the different jobs commercial truck drivers do is essential, especially if you’re looking to build a solid career in the trucking industry.

There are several types of commercial truck drivers. Each has different tasks depending on the truck driven, goods hauled, and distance traveled.

We’ve prepared this quick guide to help you understand the most common types of commercial truck driver job categories and their typical duties. We’ll also briefly discuss some requirements and skills you need to excel at various commercial truck driving jobs.

Different Types Of Commercial Truck Driving Jobs

Here are nine common types of commercial truck driver job categories you can consider pursuing:

Dry Van Haulers

Dry van trucking is one of the most traditional truck driving jobs. It involves moving well-packaged, dry goods that don’t need strict temperature control. The dry van is usually a tractor-trailer combination resembling a box with all sides enclosed but has an opening (the door) at the back.

Primary Duties

The primary duty of dry van drivers is hooking up to loaded tractor-trailers and following assigned routes to deliver goods to various destinations. They don’t load or offload the cargo, but they may have to:

Inspect cargo before leaving their pickup station to ensure everything is loaded correctly.
Handle basic mechanical problems as needed.
Manage inventory and collect signatures to verify delivery.

Requirements

As a minimum, you need a class-A commercial driver’s license to secure a job as a dry van driver. This will allow you to drive commercial motor vehicles with a wide gross weight range.

You could, for instance, drive a tractor with over 26,000 pounds and drag one trailer with over 10,000 pounds. Or drive a tractor-trailer combination with double or triple trailers ranging from 120,000 to 148,000 in total weight. Hauling double and triple trailers requires additional doubles and triple endorsement.

Freight Haulers

In freight hauling, truck drivers transport and deliver all types of cargo that dry van hauling cannot deliver. These include specialty freight such as liquids and hazardous materials. Often, freight haulers move larger loads and equipment than small packages. They can also travel over short or long distances.

Primary Duties

Overseeing freight loading to ensure freight weight limits are adhered to.
Securing the freight in place to prevent damage during transport.
Performing basic motor vehicle service checks to ensure the tractor-trailer is in good order before departure. This may include checking the oil and fluid levels plus tire pressure.

Requirements

Besides an active class A commercial driver’s license, most employers require you to have experience transporting large freight. That’s because transporting oversized cargo requires proper balancing throughout the trip.

For specific cargo, like hazardous materials, you must follow a few safety procedures to comply with all federal laws governing the transportation of hazardous materials. Here’s a detailed guide on complying with federal hazardous materials safety regulations to help you understand all the required safety procedures.

Reefer or Refrigerated Commercial Truck Drivers

As the name suggests, refrigerated or reefer commercial motor vehicle drivers haul goods that need specific temperature control. Most times, they transport perishable food items to grocery stores and restaurants.

Primary Duties

Apart from their standard driving duties, reefer tractor-trailer truck drivers are responsible for:

Ensuring their motor vehicle is always at the right temperature when transporting various goods.
Keeping their trailers clean and sanitary
Loading and unloading their tractor-trailers
Regular maintenance to fuel the cooling units and fix any refrigeration issues

Requirements

You require refrigerated trucking skills and all the skills class A CDL drivers must have. Some employers may request a specialized refrigeration certification as well for this job.

Flatbed Commercial Truck Drivers

Flatbed commercial motor vehicle drivers transport machinery and other dry products on open-air trailers. The cargo moved by flatbed drivers is usually too large or awkward and cannot fit into regular dry van trailers. These items may include lumber, steel pipes, or large tanks.

Primary Duties

Load and unload truck
Secure load with chains and tarps to prevent damage during transport
Inspect the vehicle to ensure it’s in safe working conditions before each trip
Prepare reports on cargo loads and deliveries for record-keeping
Prepare and maintain shipping documents like warehouse receipts, bills of lading, and sale
Communicate with dispatchers to get instructions on deliveries

Requirements

Because this job requires driving large trucks, you’ll have to undergo on-the-job training for about four weeks to learn how to operate flatbed trucks. This is in addition to the driving test you must pass to get your driver’s license CDL (class A) when learning to drive heavy trucks.

Most employers require a high school diploma or associate’s degree for this job. They may also assess your physical health and ability to lift and secure heavy loads since the role involves a bit of manual labor.

Tanker Commercial Truck Drivers

Tanker drivers operate trucks with liquids or gases. They transport different hazardous and non-hazardous loads, such as crude oil, diesel, gasoline, chemicals, or milk, over short and long distances.

Primary Duties

Adhering to strict safety regulations to prevent leakages
Supervise or assist in loading and unloading the tanker. This may include connecting hoses and pumps or removing utility hole covers to unload liquids into fuel tanks and other storage silos.
Maintain accurate logs of working hours and all trip activities.
Ensure the relevant staff receives the cargo and signs for their delivery.

Requirements

Tractor-trailer truck drivers require specialized training to handle tankers and the different types of loads they haul. Depending on the properties of the load you haul, you’ll need to learn how to handle various emergencies like chemical spills. You may also require special certifications, including occupational health and safety certificates, in addition to a class A commercial driver’s license (CDL).

You’ll have to follow all the dot regulations to get the required tank vehicle endorsement for operating tanker trucks. To receive this endorsement, you must pass a written knowledge test and practical exam. If hauling hazardous liquids, you must also abide by all FMCSA rules on transporting hazardous materials.

Location-to-location or Less than truckload (LTL)

LTL tractor-trailer truck drivers transport smaller loads or shipments and often make multiple trips a day. Most drivers drop several packages at various locations. Other drivers pick up or deliver packages to terminals, where they transfer the goods to other trucks, which then deliver the loads along designated routes.

Primary Duties

Safe transport of various types of goods at multiple locations daily
Load and unload trucks several times a day

Requirements

Like all other truck driving jobs, becoming an LTL truck driver requires a commercial driver’s license, but it doesn’t have to be a class A CDL. A class B CDL will do, although you’ll be limited to hauling specific types of trucks.

Most LTL drivers are company drivers, and employers require a few years of experience in a delivery position (about two years) with a clean driving record.

Local Commercial Truck Drivers

Local commercial motor vehicle truck drivers transport goods of varying sizes within their locality. They are different from regional commercial truck drivers who cover longer routes (roughly 1000 miles), even though both types of truck drivers perform almost the same duties.

Primary Duties

Local and regional tractor-trailer truck drivers must ensure their cargo remains safe and in excellent condition during transport.
Coordinate with their respective trucking companies to manage new loads effectively and transport them within specified time frames.
Local truck drivers often assist in loading and unloading cargo, whereas regional truck drivers don’t.

Requirements

Both types of commercial truck drivers require extensive knowledge of the routes they operate in. If you choose these trucking jobs, you’ll have to master the many routes in the geographical area you cover.

Over-the-road Commercial Truck Drivers

Over-the-road (OTR) truck drivers specialize in long-distance hauling. They transport goods over thousands of miles and are usually on the road for long periods.

This is one of the most lucrative trucking careers. CDL drivers earn a minimum of $78,113 annually and enjoy several benefits.

Usually, the drivers are required by law to take rest periods in transit. Because of this, some trucking companies employ team drivers to deliver time-critical cargo. Here, two drivers take turns to drive the same truck, delivering the load faster.

Primary Duties

Complying with all dot regulations, including the hours of service and gross vehicle weight restrictions.
Performing prescribed tractor-trailer inspections and documenting its working conditions before departure.
Supervising cargo loading and unloading. This includes managing inventory and getting clients’ signatures to confirm that all items were delivered in pristine condition.
Logging all trip activities, including the hours and miles driven, rest stop durations, plus fuel, repair, and toll road expenses.
Communicating delays or late deliveries due to breakdowns or accidents to dispatchers.

Requirements

Due to the long hours spent behind the wheel, you have to meet specific medical conditions to qualify for this job. You must pass vision tests and go through high blood pressure checks, among other medical tests.

Most employers may also require you to go through various skills tests before hiring you, even if you are a class A CDL driver with years of experience.

Vocational Commercial Truck Drivers

You can opt for vocational commercial truck driving, which includes tow truck drivers and drivers of garbage trunks or dump trucks.

Conclusion

The trucking industry is diverse and has several career growth opportunities. You can start out in one niche, say a dry van driver, then work your way to being an OTR driver, provided you have the required commercial driving license.

Your job security in the industry is secure if you maintain a clean driving record and possess various skills truck drivers need to succeed.

Read our guide on commercial truck driver salary expectations to estimate how much you’ll earn as a commercial truck driver. If you’re interested in buying a semi-truck and starting your own trucking business instead, contact Mission Financial Services! We’ll help finance your purchase.

Commercial Truck Driver Salary Expectations

How much does a truck driver make? This is a common question for job seekers in the transportation industry.

A commercial truck driver’s salary can vary in a pretty big way. This just depends on factors like what kind of vehicle you’re driving, what you’re hauling, what kind of truck driving distances you’re covering, how experienced you are, and so on.

In this guide, we’ll explore the average truck driver’s salary, as well as break down some of the critical elements that influence a truck driver’s salary.

What Influences a Commercial Truck Driver Salary?

Many different factors influence what truck drivers earn. This is because being a truck driver is an incredibly versatile job, with all kinds of different types of truck drivers out there.

Before we get into the average salary for truck drivers, let’s first explore some of the main factors that influence truck driver salaries.

Experience

One of the most significant factors that influence the average base salary of a truck driver is experience.

Entry-level drivers might earn less than those with many years of experience. Experienced drivers often have a better understanding of the industry. They could be more reliable, more efficient, and more valuable to trucking companies. This means more experienced drivers have a good chance of taking higher-paying positions.

Type of Trucking

There are many different types of commercial truck drivers out there, and the type of trucking you’re involved in can affect your pay.

Some drivers work in long-haul trucking, which might involve extended periods away from home but often pays more.

There could also be additional benefits to long-haul truck driving, such as food and accommodation allowances. While this doesn’t necessarily mean you earn more, it could reduce your living expenses if you’re on the road for long enough.

Local or regional trucking jobs might offer more predictable schedules and less time away but could have slightly lower pay than drivers who cover long distances.

The trucking industry is diverse, with all kinds of different routes, schedules, and types of trucking available. Generally speaking, the more time you spend driving, the more you will get paid. Of course, this is not a hard and fast rule.

What You’re Hauling

The transportation industry includes truckers that haul all kinds of different goods. Some truck drivers require special licenses and training to haul specific loads, which generally results in higher-paid roles.

For example, hazmat truck drivers or drivers of oversized loads will earn more, as they are more specialized. Truck drivers in more dangerous conditions, like ice road truckers, will likely also earn more than a regular truck driver.

Any type of truck driving that requires specialist knowledge and skills will probably generate more money. Pay could also vary based on the type of semi-truck you’re driving.

Company Size

Like any job, a truck driver’s salary can vary greatly depending on the company they work for.

The size and reputation of the trucking company play a big role in compensation. Larger, well-established companies might offer more competitive pay and benefits packages. Small-scale transportation companies might offer a lower salary.

If you’re an owner-operator, then how much you earn comes down to how much work you’re able to take on, and what kind of work you focus on.

Location

Salaries can vary greatly based on the region – each state pays truck drivers differently. Areas with a higher cost of living and greater demand for trucking services might offer higher pay to attract drivers.

It’s also important to understand that long-distance truck drivers often drive across multiple states or even countries. The average truck driver salary of these drivers that span multiple locations is often higher than regional truck drivers on shorter routes.

Benefits

When looking at the average salary of a truck driver, you also need to consider the full benefits package that may be available.

Some trucking companies offer additional benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and bonuses, which can impact the overall compensation package. A truck driver’s salary may often only be one portion of their entire compensation, so it’s important to understand the full picture.

Mileage vs. Hourly Pay

Companies hiring truck drivers make payments in different ways. Some trucking jobs pay drivers based on the number of miles driven, while others offer hourly wages.

Hourly pay might be more favorable in situations where drivers spend a lot of time waiting (e.g., at loading docks) or in traffic. However, drivers who earn based on their miles will earn more if they drive more.

So, there could be a broad range in pay when you compare regional drivers and local drivers against long-distance truckers.

Average Commercial Truck Driver Salary

Now that we know what influences a commercial truck driver’s salary, let’s look into how much a truck driver earns.

According to Talent.com, the average salary for a truck driver in the US is $62,483 per year. This is the median average salary, with the high end being $89,186 for top earners, and the low end being $48,750.

According to Indeed, the average base salary of a truck driver is $1551 per week. This could be broken down as:

$0.48 – $0.75 per mile for a company team driver
$0.40 – $0.64 per mile for a company solo driver
$0.94 – $1.79 per mile for an owner-operator driver

Indeed emphasizes the difference in pay between beginner truck drivers and more experienced commercial drivers.

Conclusion

This guide should give you a good idea of the average pay you can expect as a truck driver. Of course, this could vary greatly for solo drivers, ice road truckers, owner-operators, specialist truck drivers, and more.

Whatever the case, make sure you’re paid fairly when taking on a truck driving job.

Interested in buying a semi-truck and starting your own trucking business? Get in touch with us at Mission Financial, where we can help you gain financing for your commercial vehicle needs.

How Many Semi-Truck Accidents Per Year Are There? (+Other Safety FAQs)

Large trucks account for only 5% of the total number of vehicles on the road, yet they cause a significant number of fatal crashes yearly.

Exactly how many semi-truck accidents per year is concerning.

Nearly 388,000 truck accidents happen annually across the U.S., and the aftermath of these truck crashes ranges from various injury levels to death.

Commercial truck accident statistics from the National Safety Council (NSC) reveal that in 2021, almost six thousand people lost their lives in crashes involving large trucks. A further 155,000 were injured.

This article explores essential commercial truck accident statistics you should know. We discuss how, as a trucker, you can prevent big truck crashes and keep our roads safe.

Important Semi-Truck Accidents Statistics To Know

When a truck crashes, the occupants of other vehicles are the ones who suffer life-changing injuries or lose their lives.

According to a publication by the US Department of Transportation summarizing truck accident statistics, there was a 17% increase in fatalities from trucking accidents in 2021, with 72% of the deaths being passenger vehicle occupants, 17% being large truck occupants, and 11% being non-occupants.

The number of people injured in large truck accidents also increased by 9% between 2020 and 2021 with 71% being passenger vehicle occupants, 27% being large truck occupants, and 2% being non-occupants.

Occupants of passenger cars are more vulnerable to truck crashes. As a trucker, you are responsible for your safety and the safety of other vehicle occupants and road users.

Drivers of tractor-trailers, in particular, need to be more careful than other large truck drivers as 74% of the deaths from truck-related crashes in 2021 were due to fatal accidents involving tractor-trailers.

The remaining truck fatalities resulted from severe accidents involving single-unit trucks. This shows that tractor-trailers are the most dangerous commercial vehicles on our roads.

When and Where Do Most Large Truck Accidents Happen?

Further interesting truck accident statistics from the National Safety Council report indicate when and where most truck-involved accidents happen. Understanding this is crucial so you know when to be extra cautious when driving.

Most truck accidents (73.99%) happen on non-interstate roads. This means interstate highways are the safest for large truck drivers, although some truck accidents (26.01%) still occur on these roads.

The summary of semi-truck accident statistics also shows most fatal accidents occur during the day (63.54%) compared to nighttime (36.46%). Fatal accidents where most car occupants died in 2021 also happened during weekdays – between 6 am and 6 pm.

To reduce the number of motor vehicle crash deaths involving large trucks; truck drivers need to pay extra attention when driving on non-interstate roads during the day, especially between 6 am and 3 pm.

What Causes Semi-Truck Accidents?

Semi-truck accidents can result from a variety of factors, often involving a combination of human errors, mechanical issues, environmental conditions, and other contributing factors. Some common causes of semi-truck accidents include:

Truck Driver Error

Large truck drivers have very little room for errors compared to passenger vehicle drivers. There’s also little leeway to correct mistakes once made, leading to fatal accidents.

For instance, a fully loaded tractor-trailer requires about 40% more space to stop than other passenger vehicles. So, avoiding an accident becomes almost impossible if a semi-truck driver fails to accurately calculate the distance needed to stop. Passenger vehicle drivers, on the other hand, don’t face similar issues.

Driver Fatigue

Despite strict hours-of-service regulations from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), many large truck drivers work long hours. They experience fatigue, are more likely to sleep behind the wheel, and cause fatal crashes.

Driving Under Influence

Alcohol and other street drugs impair truck drivers’ ability to drive safely. Often, truck drivers become drowsy or slow to react to various road conditions. The chances of drivers causing truck collisions or multiple-vehicle crashes when under the influence are high.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving occurs when a tractor-trailer driver or drivers of other passenger vehicles use their phones or other hand-held devices while driving. Existing laws in most states prohibit car drivers from doing this. However, some truck drivers still take their eyes off the road to use their phones, and cause fatal accidents.

Vehicle Issues

Several vehicle issues, like tire defects and brake problems, can lead to fatal truck accidents. Fatal crash data from a truck causation study conducted by FMCSA lists brake issues as a top cause of fatal accidents.

Roadway Issues

Sometimes, big rig accidents link back to road conditions. Poor or unmaintained roads with large potholes, missing signage, or faint roadway markings put truckers and other passenger car drivers at risk.

For example, a truck driver may fail to see critical signage on an unfamiliar road leading to driver error which can cause a crash with several passenger vehicles.

Tips For Minimizing Truck Accidents

Although car accident statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety show an increase in fatalities from motor vehicle crashes, there’s hope that things will change. The Department Of Transportation created a detailed national roadway safety strategy to ensure this happens.

As a truck driver, you can also play your part in minimizing vehicle crashes and truck fatalities by:

Maintaining your truck regularly to identify and deal with any issues early
Being keen on the road to avoid grave errors that may lead to truck fatalities
Avoiding using your phone while driving
Resting. Follow the hours-of-service recommendations by FMCSA.
Don’t drink and drive.

Conclusion

Most large trucks are heavy, with a gross vehicle weight rating of over 26,000 pounds. So motor vehicle accidents involving large trucks are often more fatal than those involving other commercial vehicles. This is why truckers have to be more vigilant on the road.

If you get involved in a truck accident, remember you can get compensated for any injuries sustained. Our guide on what to do after a semi-truck accident explains all the steps you should take to get compensation.

We’ve also put together helpful information to help you find the right semi-truck accident lawyer if you ever need one. Please read our blog to learn more and to stay updated with the latest news in the trucking industry.