The life of a trucker: what to know before choosing this career

If you're thinking about a new career as a truck driver, research it first to make sure it's a good fit for you. A trucker's life can be very demanding, but the job can allow you to see new places and enjoy the open road. Here are some factors to consider before pursuing a career in trucking.

A day in the life of a trucker

Most employers allow truck drivers to set their own hours, as long as they deliver shipments and cargo on time. Some start their days early so that they drive in daylight, while others work at night to avoid traffic. Their responsibilities often include:

Transporting finished goods or raw materials
Completing deliveries on time
Helping load and unload cargo
Keeping detailed records of miles driven and expenses, such as toll fees and fuel
Recording vehicle maintenance and state-mandated inspections
Driving safely by complying with all traffic laws

Is trucking a good career?

As a truck driver, you can explore the country and meet a wide variety of people. You can also drive a local or regional route to stay closer to home. Most modern trucks are comfortable and ergonomically designed, and some have additional amenities, such as a mini fridge or an electric cooler. A trucking career can be rewarding for people who enjoy driving and spending time on the open road.

Pros of being a truck driver

Knowing the advantages of becoming a truck driver can help you decide whether it's a good fit for you. The pros of a career in trucking include:

Minimal education requirements

The educational requirements for truck drivers depend on the position, but most only require drivers to have their high school diploma or equivalent. Many truck drivers complete courses to learn how to operate large trucks and tractor-trailers. Typically, these programs last between three and six months.

In addition, truck drivers usually need a commercial driver's license to haul heavy cargo. Usually, it only takes a few weeks to get a CDL. However, the requirements can vary by state and type of license. For example, hauling hazardous materials like gasoline or propane often requires an endorsement or special certification.

High demand

As long as there's a need for trucks to haul freight and cargo, truck driving will continue to be an in-demand career. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of truck drivers will grow an estimated 4% by 2032, with about 241,200 job openings each year over the next decade.

Employment benefits

Most truck drivers get benefits through their employers, such as health and dental insurance, paid time off, and retirement accounts. Other employment perks can vary depending on the employer. For example, some companies may allow you to bring a pet with you while you drive.

Good pay

Truck drivers can earn good pay, especially as they gain more experience. In the United States, truck drivers make an average of $21.65 an hour or about $45,000 per year.

With most truck driving jobs, how far you drive determines how much you earn. Some drivers receive hourly pay, but compensation is usually calculated by the mile. Some employers pay for practical miles, or the number of miles driven on known routes. Others use short miles, the distance in a straight line from one point to another. That means you get the same amount no matter which route you take.

Independence

Most truck drivers work independently, and many value their freedom as a perk of the job. In addition, many truck drivers eventually become owner-operators who run their own businesses. If you choose to be your own boss, you can decide how often you work and where you go.

"Most truck drivers work independently, and many value their freedom as a perk of the job."

Cons of being a truck driver

While a career in truck driving can be a good experience, it's not for everyone. Here are some challenges to consider:

Irregular schedules

Truck driving is not a 9-to-5 job. While the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration sets regulations for how many hours truck drivers can work consecutively, the schedule can still be grueling. They might drive as many as 70 hours in eight days. Work schedules can include weekends and holidays. This can make it hard to achieve a healthy work-life balance.

Stress

Truck driving can be a stressful career. Drivers need to ensure they make deliveries on time, regardless of traffic conditions. They can struggle to find parking spots, especially in small lots. They may need to wait for staff members to load and unload their trucks before they get moving. This process can sometimes take several hours, and truck drivers who get paid by the mile don't earn any extra money for this time.

Loneliness

Truck drivers spend a lot of time on the road by themselves. They might drive for hours without interacting with another person. It's common to feel lonely, which can take a toll on their mental health.

Time Away From Loved Ones

Many truck drivers spend some nights away from home. Since they work irregular schedules, it can be challenging to schedule social activities with friends and family. This can create strain on their relationships with loved ones.

Truck driving can be a great career for many people, but it's worth considering the pros and cons as you determine whether it's a good match for you. When you're ready to find your next job, upload your resume to CareerBuilder to expand your search. You can also learn more about being a truck driver and many other jobs.