Is Commercial Trucking Right for You? Here’s How to Find Out

The Benefits of Commercial Trucking

One of the significant advantages of the commercial trucking industry is the high demand for drivers. According to the American Trucking Association, the industry needs to hire over one million new drivers within the next decade to keep up with the growing demand for freight transportation. This means that there are abundant job opportunities available for qualified drivers.

In addition to the abundance of job openings, commercial trucking can also be a well-paying career. As of May 2023, the national median annual wage for truck drivers was $83,318, according to Indeed. Furthermore, many trucking companies offer benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.

Another advantage of working in commercial trucking is the opportunity to travel and explore new places. As a truck driver, you’ll have the chance to experience different parts of the country and visit cities and towns that you might not have otherwise had the opportunity to see. Some drivers even get to travel to different countries, adding an exciting dimension to the job.

Lifestyle Demands

Commercial trucking is undoubtedly a challenging profession that often requires drivers to spend extended periods away from home. For many OTR (Over-the-Road) truck drivers, the reality involves weeks on the road, with just a handful of days to reconnect with loved ones between trips. Understandably, this arrangement can be especially demanding for drivers with families or those who long for the comfort of their own homes each night.

However, it’s important to note that the trucking industry offers a range of options to suit different lifestyles and preferences. Many companies now provide diverse driving roles that give drivers the opportunity to be home daily, every couple of days, or even every week or couple of weeks, depending on the specific company’s policies.

For those seeking the comfort of returning home every night, local trucking positions are the best option. These roles typically involve shorter routes, allowing drivers to complete their deliveries within a day and return home in the evenings. This is ideal for individuals who prioritize regular family time or prefer the stability of being in their own space after a day’s work.

Alternatively, regional trucking positions offer a balance between OTR and local driving. Drivers in these roles cover a larger territory, usually within a specific region or several states. While they may spend a couple of days on the road, they enjoy the benefit of returning home more frequently than OTR drivers. This arrangement allows for a balance between work commitments and personal life, providing a reasonable compromise for drivers who desire a moderate amount of time at home.

Lastly, for those who enjoy the adventure and freedom of long-haul journeys, OTR trucking can be an appealing option. Although it often involves spending several weeks away from home, some companies offer schedules that allow drivers to return home as often as every week or every couple of weeks. This flexibility caters to drivers who appreciate the open road and are willing to embrace longer periods away from home in exchange for extended breaks in between trips.

Whether it’s local, regional, or OTR driving, there are options that allow drivers to strike their own balance between their work commitments and personal life, ensuring a more fulfilling and adaptable trucking career.

Additional Factors to Consider

Before embarking on a career in commercial trucking, it’s important to consider other various factors. These include your physical capabilities and willingness to comply with industry regulations. Evaluating these factors will help you determine if commercial trucking is the right career path for you.

Health and Safety Risks

A crucial aspect to take into account is the physical demands of the job. Driving for long hours at a stretch can take a toll on the body, and truck drivers are at a higher risk for issues like back pain, obesity, and sleep disorders. Additionally, safety concerns must be considered, as truck drivers are more likely to be involved in accidents or sustain injuries on the job.

Licensing and Training Requirements

To become a commercial truck driver, you’ll need to obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL), which requires passing both a written and skills test. Moreover, many trucking companies require new drivers to complete a training program before they can drive independently.

Regulations and Compliance

It’s essential to note that commercial trucking is a heavily regulated industry. Drivers are required to comply with various rules and regulations, including limits on daily driving hours and requirements for vehicle maintenance and safety. Failure to follow these regulations can result in fines, license suspension, or even job termination.

How to Determine If Commercial Trucking Is Right for You

To determine whether or not commercial trucking might be a good fit for you, it’s important to take some time to evaluate your lifestyle preferences, health and safety concerns, and willingness to comply with regulations. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Research Trucking Companies

When considering a career in commercial trucking, research different trucking companies to find one that suits your needs. Look for companies that offer competitive pay and benefits, prioritize safety, and have a good reputation for treating their drivers well. By conducting thorough research, you can find a company that aligns with your values and preferences, setting yourself up for success in your trucking career.

Talk to Current Truck Drivers

Gaining insights from current truck drivers is an excellent way to understand the industry better and gain practical knowledge about working as a truck driver. They can offer valuable insights and advice on how to succeed in the field. By taking the time to speak with current truck drivers, you can gain a realistic perspective on the job and what it takes to thrive, helping you make an informed decision about pursuing a career in commercial trucking.

Consider Your Lifestyle

Before deciding to pursue a career in commercial trucking, carefully consider your lifestyle and whether spending long periods away from home would be a good fit for you. If you have family or other commitments that require you to be home regularly, trucking may not be the best choice. Taking the time to evaluate your lifestyle preferences will help you make an informed decision about whether commercial trucking is the right career path for you.

Assess Your Physical Capabilities

Another critical factor to consider before pursuing a career in commercial trucking is your physical capabilities. Evaluate your physical health to determine if you can handle the demands of the job, which can involve long hours of driving. If you have health issues that would make driving for extended periods difficult, trucking may not be a suitable option for you. Assessing your physical capabilities will help you determine if commercial trucking is a viable career choice and prevent potential health issues down the road.

Take Regulations Seriously

Compliance with regulations is a fundamental aspect of working in commercial trucking, and it’s essential to take them seriously. Be prepared to follow all rules and guidelines set forth by the industry. If you’re unwilling or unable to comply with regulations, you may not thrive in the industry. Recognizing the importance of regulations ensures that you operate safely and legally while on the road, protecting yourself and others, and setting yourself up for success in your trucking career.

The Rewards Are Significant

Commercial trucking can be a rewarding and well-paying career for those willing to invest time and effort. While there are challenges associated with the industry, there are also many positives, including job security, the opportunity for a healthy work/life balance, and the options to travel and explore new places.

If you’re considering a career in commercial trucking, take the time to evaluate your lifestyle preferences, physical capabilities, and willingness to comply with regulations. Research different trucking companies and engage in conversations with current drivers to gain a better understanding of the job’s realities. With careful consideration and preparation, you can determine whether commercial trucking is the right career path for you.