FAQs
Being an owner-operator gives you the opportunity to build a business with a great reputation that will act as a financial asset for you in the future that you can sell at the end of your working life, or set it up to run without you so it can outlive you and you can leave a legacy.
How to get rich as a truck driver? ›
6 Ways to Increase Your Income as a Truck Driver
- Add different CDL endorsem*nts. If you don't already, having different CDL endorsem*nts can increase your salary as a driver. ...
- Gain experience. ...
- Establish a good reputation. ...
- Build relationships. ...
- Plan your routes. ...
- Have control of your finances.
Can you lie about trucking experience? ›
The last five years of your driving record.
If you find yourself in this situation, you can help your chances by attending a defensive driving class that is provided by either the National Safety Council or a state trucking association. Don't lie about the record because it will come up on the DAC report.
How to get CDL in USA? ›
How to get your CDL
- Pass the age requirements. Most states allow you to obtain a CDL at the age of 18. ...
- Get a CLP. ...
- Attend a CDL program. ...
- Pass a knowledge exam and skills test. ...
- Have the necessary documentation. ...
- Pass a background screen and undergo a physical. ...
- Be aware of any additional requirements.
What pays the most owner-operator? ›
Top companies for Owner Operator Drivers in United States
- Hugo Hunter Inc. 4.1 $5,834per week. 7 reviews641 salaries reported.
- Bennett Family of Companies. 3.7 $4,984per week. ...
- TRANSWOOD. 2.6 $4,636per week. ...
- CRST, The Transportation Solution. 2.9 $3,880per week. ...
- Hub Group. 2.8 $3,835per week. ...
- Show more companies.
Can a owner-operator be rich? ›
So, while the average owner-operator salary is over $300,000, depending on how you manage your business finances, actual net income may be closer to $100,000 per year.
Which truck drivers make the most money? ›
10 High-paying truck driver jobs
- Long-haul truck driver. ...
- Specialty vehicle hauler. ...
- Ice road driver. ...
- Hazmat tanker. ...
- Tanker/liquid hauler. ...
- Mine/haul truck driver. ...
- Team truck driver. ...
- Owner-operator. National average salary: $210,396 per year.
How to make money with your own semi truck? ›
Profitable Ways to Build a Stable Income with a Semi Truck
- Becoming an Owner Operator. ...
- Government Contracts. ...
- Becoming a Fleet Owner. ...
- Start a Moving Company.
How can I make money fast with my truck? ›
With most you could even start your own local business in order to start getting paid with your truck as soon as possible.
- Provide a Junk Hauling Service. ...
- Provide a Moving Service. ...
- Provide a Yard Care Service. ...
- Provide a Delivery Service. ...
- Provide a Towing Service. ...
- Provide a Rental Service. ...
- LoadUp's Driving App. ...
- Uber and Lyft.
What's the hardest thing about trucking? ›
An Isolated Environment. One challenging aspect of being a truck driver is the prolonged periods of isolation. Truck drivers can spend weeks away from their families and loved ones. This solitude, while peaceful for some, can lead to feelings of loneliness and disconnect for many.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor, the most common cause of workplace death is transportation accidents, which account for 40% of all on-the-job deaths; and delivery truck drivers experience nearly three times more injuries and deaths than any other occupation.
How long should you stay with your first trucking company? ›
Most people in the industry will recommend you stay with your first company at least a year, as long as it's a healthy and stable environment. During that time, check and see what other trucking companies are looking for, and then focus on developing those things.
What is the easiest state to get a CDL license? ›
So, if you're still wondering what is the easiest state to get a CDL in is, just know it includes Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Kentucky, Tennessee, Mississippi, Indiana, and South Carolina, because that's where our schools are located.
Is there a shortage of CDL drivers in the United States? ›
In 2021, demand for truck drivers in the United States reached an estimated 80,500. Fast forward to 2030, and that figure is forecast to double to a staggering 162,000. Globally, the situation is equally daunting, with over 3 million truck driver positions currently unfilled across 36 studied countries.
How much does it cost to get a CDL license in the US? ›
Tuition for getting your CDL will vary and can range between $1,500 to $8,000. Combined with the other costs discussed, the total cost to get your CDL will be between $4,000 and $12,000. The exact cost will depend on a variety of things such as the truck driving school you attend and the location of your licensing.
Is owning your own truck profitable? ›
Yes, you can make money from trucking, if you get it right. The average net profit margin of a trucking company averages between 2.5% and 6%. That means it can be a profitable business and an industry that you can make a decent living from, provided you get into the trucking business with your eyes wide open.
What are the disadvantages of owner-operator? ›
Startup Costs
Starting out as an owner-operator can be expensive. There's the cost of purchasing or leasing a truck, obtaining necessary licenses and permits, and insuring your vehicle and cargo. These costs can be daunting and may require taking out loans or tapping into savings.
What percent of owner-operators fail? ›
Unfortunately, 90% of new small trucking companies are unable to succeed due to common mistakes made by inexperienced business owners. In this article, we'll discuss the reasons trucking companies fail and how you can avoid making the same mistakes with your new business.
Is owning your own semi worth it? ›
Your own trucks pack a lot more value into your business and can open up more funding opportunities. Plus, when you own your truck, you have the freedom to use and modify it as you see fit. Ultimately, ownership gives you more control over your business—but also adds a lot of responsibility.