America is facing a massive shortage of truck drivers that’s been building for several years. Consumers are buying packages online more than ever, but there are fewer drivers to deliver them.
The trucking industry needs new drivers, and they’re willing to pay you to become one – many companies are increasing new driver incentives and salaries. If you earn less than $50,000 a year and want a career that offers immediate fantastic pay, this may be the career for you.
Truck Driver Pay is Increasing Fast
The trucking industry is desperately in need of over 50,000 new truck drivers in 2018 alone, The Washington Post reports. If these openings aren’t filled, that number will only increase. Fortunately for Americans looking for a job, this shortage is leading trucking companies to offer better pay and higher salaries in order to attract new drivers.
Truck drivers in the Midwest, for example, are now earning $80,000 – and that’s the starting salary.
Quick tip: Like any job, it pays to compare multiple offers. Some people have been able to secure major sign on bonuses up to $10,000. Do a search today.
Things get even better once you become a skilled driver. For some companies, it may be possible to demand between $85,000 and $120,000 from places like the founders of Dow Brothers Transportation in Dallas.
That’s how bad trucking companies need drivers right now. Drivers who are on the road today say they’ve never seen rates as good as they currently are thanks to the shortage. And the need for drivers is only expected to increase as more people are needed to deliver the increase of packages and goods. The American Trucking Association expects demand to explode, leaving 176,000 openings for new truck drivers by 2026.
Incentives are Getting Absolutely Incredible
A stellar salary is only one way trucking companies are wooing new drivers to join their ranks. Thanks to the growing shortage, these companies are also offering enticing incentives for new drivers.
Contrary to what people may think, truck driving as a job has improved dramatically. Trucking companies know they need to keep turnover low. With better benefits including paid holidays, increased PTO, health insurance, and local routes, along with salaries designed to keep drivers happy, the traditional truck driving life may be changing. It may be time to finally consider that job you ignored for so many years.
And if you want to take on the tougher routes, trucking companies are providing even more financial incentives to take on the longer hours and many more of trucking’s challenges.
Where to Look for Truck Driving Jobs
Sure, life on the road as a truck driver may not be right for everyone, but what other jobs offer you the same kind of money with no college degree? Anyone can begin working towards a truck driver career right now with a quick driving course.
From signing bonuses that offer new drivers thousands of dollars upon getting a new job to flexible scheduling to mileage incentives that act as bonuses, trucking companies are turning truck driving into a great job. A new driver can quickly rack up extra cash in the very first days of this career.
If you’re considering becoming a truck driver, there’s no better time than right now. There are plenty of openings and opportunities. To get started, you simply need to search online. One online search will quickly reveal truck driving jobs in your area, letting you compare companies, job openings, and different rates all in one place. You can choose the best fit and the top salary with this information and easy research.