5 Benefits of Becoming a Truck Driver

If you love to drive long distances and are looking for a great way to make money, you may have just found your calling in life. Being a truck driver is fairly straightforward, but it gives you an opportunity to see the country inside and out. The job entails driving large trucks to and from destinations all over the country. Most imported goods arrive on the coasts of the U.S. It’s then up to a fleet of truck drivers to move the freight inland. You are bound to see all kinds of new territory as you crisscross state lines. Learn more about the benefits of being a truck driver and everything you need to land your first job.

Why It Pays to Drive a Truck

• Essential Knowledge

The job also gives you firsthand knowledge of diesel engines and large industrial equipment. You will spend most of your time working with or near powerful machines with complex systems and interconnected parts. These engines are extremely reliable, but they require regular maintenance. You can use this time to get to know the fuel system inside and out. If you ignore important issues under the hood, your livelihood could be at stake. A slight problem could also decrease your fuel efficiency, which will cut into your net earnings. Be sure to stock up on diesel truck parts to keep your vehicle running strong.

You will learn about turbochargers, fuel injectors, and glow plugs, all essential components of any diesel vehicle. Replace the turbo actuator as needed to maintain the right amount of exhaust gas pressure or the engine may burn more fuel than necessary to generate the amount needed to move the vehicle. Inspect your turbo hoses for damage after hauling heavy loads for long periods of time. You need to take care of your diesel truck whether you are driving your own vehicle or one that belongs to the company. If the engine breaks down unexpectedly or needs frequent repairs, you could miss out on work as a result.

• Good Money

Life on the road can lead to a lifetime of solid earnings. The 2021 median pay for truck drivers was $23 per hour with an annual salary of $48,310. But long-distance haulers tend to make even more money for their time, earning an average of $64,000 a year. You can work salary or pick up jobs on a freelance basis if you build up a steady roster of clients. You might get paid by distance, how much time you spend behind the wheel, or how much cargo you’re hauling.

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• Job Security

You shouldn’t be hard-pressed to find a job as a truck driver. Most of the country’s goods are transported by trucks, and there are millions of opportunities to be had. The profession is expected to grow at a rate of 4% through 2031, according to the latest findings from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

• Free Travel

Nothing gives you a tour of the U.S. like driving a truck. The job will take you to places you never would have visited on your own. You will see valleys, lakes, mountains, and lots of farmland as you move from one area to the next. The view is always changing outside your window to keep you engaged. You will also meet all kinds of new people along the way, including other truck drivers, service workers, and warehouse personnel responsible for unloading the cargo.

If you’re worried about getting bored behind the wheel, consider driving shorter distances to limit the amount of time you spend on the road. Plug in a podcast or audiobook to learn new skills and information while you drive.

• Autonomy

Driving a truck gives you the freedom to work as you, please. If you don’t like being micromanaged, this is the job for you. You don’t have to worry about someone looking over your shoulder or criticizing your work. It’s all about getting the cargo to the destination on time and intact. How you spend your time on the road is entirely up to you.

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Becoming a Professional Truck Driver

If you’re ready to become a professional hauler, you’ll need to get a commercial driver’s license (CDL) by meeting the qualifications in your state. You should be an experienced driver before applying. To get a CDL, you need to enroll in a certified CDL program. The training will go over everything you need to know to pass the written exam. You also need to complete a certain number of practice hours with a supervisor to make sure you know how to navigate the road.

Once you’ve obtained your license, you can apply for CDL certifications and endorsements that can help you land your first job. You should then be able to find a job at a distribution or shipping company. Some jobs may require you to pass a medical test, so you should be physically fit to sit for long periods of time. Few jobs require as much travel as driving a truck.  It’s a unique lifestyle that will take you all over the country. Keep these tips in mind when deciding whether to pursue a career on the road.

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