How to Get Started in the OTR Trucking Business
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), driving a truck "over the road" (OTR) is expected to gain the 13th most jobs of any occupation in the United States by 2018. OTR trucking is expected to add an astounding 232,900 jobs during this time. With this demand, the average salary, estimated by the BLS at the time of publication to be $39,450, could continue to rise as well. Getting your start as an OTR driver requires several steps, but with the job market this favorable, it may be worth your consideration.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Meet with truck drivers you know and others at truck stops to discuss the industry. If you are acquainted with an experienced driver, preferably one who owns his own truck, see if you can ride with him on a run to see if you like the business. Get a feel for the industry, the requirements and the less desirable parts of the job.
-
2
Decide whether you will purchase a truck and contract yourself or you will work for another firm. While truck ownership has advantages such as flexible driving times and tax deductions, leasing a vehicle and working for a trucking company may be an easier way to get your start.
-
-
3
Attend truck driving school. If you will be purchasing your own vehicle, you will have to pay for this expense. If you will be working for a firm, it will likely pay for your schooling if you contractually agree to work for them for a defined amount of time. Many drivers work for a firm first to decide whether they like the industry before investing $100,000 or more on a vehicle.
-
4
Learn the compensation and days-off policies for several companies. These may vary dramatically between carriers. Pick an employer who allows you to find a work/life balance. Get references on prospective employers to understand the realities of working with them.
-
5
Decide what materials or cargo you intend to haul. Practice driving the vehicle matching this cargo as much as you can. Take the Commercial Driver's License (CDL) test and any corresponding endorsement tests you will need to haul your intended cargo.
-
6
Practice careful stewardship of your required paperwork with regards to mileage logs and expense records. These are an essential part of the occupation and your employer will terminate you for lack of compliance since the penalty for noncompliance is so high.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Maintain a spotless driving record while driving the truck and your own vehicle. Marks on a driving record can adversely affect insurance rates and employment.
Pick a vehicle with a sleeping quarters for convenience during long drives.
Purchase industry-specific insurance from a reputable insurer.
Never drive tired.
Don't text and drive.
References
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupations With the Largest Job Growth
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: 53-3032 Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Truck Drivers and Driver/Sales Workers
- U.S. Department of Transportation: Commercial Driver's License Program (CDL/CDLIS)
- The Trucker's Report: Advice to New Drivers
- Trucking Truth: Getting Started
Resources
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
