4 Reasons to Start Trucking Right Now

Whether you’ve been thinking about making a career change or you’re just entering the workforce for the first time, truck driving is an incredibly advantageous option. Trucking is perfect for anyone looking for something completely different from office life and careers can be tailored to individual preferences, making it a great option for almost anyone. If you need more convincing, here are all of the reasons you should start truck driving today:

1. Truck drivers are in especially high demand.

Over the past few years, there’s been a high demand for truckers and not enough drivers to fill the positions. According to the American Trucking Association’s Chief Economist Bob Costello, the trucking industry could be short over 50,000 drivers by the end of 2017, putting that need at an all-time high. By getting your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), you put yourself in a position to find lucrative work incredibly quickly.

2. Truck driving is extremely profitable.

Even though most of us don’t stop and think about how our everyday materials get from Point A to Point B, truck driving is essential our economy and everyday lives. Because of this, truckers have the opportunity to make great money. A lot of factors play into just how much a CDL driver can make, but on average, first-year drivers make about $40,000. Drivers are paid per mile, so it’s often up to the driver and how much they want to drive at a time. Not to mention, companies sometimes offer certain bonus opportunities such as fuel efficiency bonuses and safety pay.

3. Truck driving allows for tons of flexibility.

One of the best things about a career in trucking is how flexible it is. No matter your personal preferences, chances are, truck driving can work for you. Because drivers are paid per mile, they typically have the ability to choose their own hours and drive when it suits them, whether that be for long periods of time or with frequent breaks. Lone wolf drivers can drive by themselves, or some people choose to drive as part of a team. Plus—some carriers even allow pets!

4. Truck driving offers great benefits.

Not only is trucking great for the short-term in terms of salary, it’s also incredibly advantageous in the long-term. In addition to the great starting salary, truckers also enjoy job security knowing their jobs can’t be outsourced to other countries. Depending on your carrier, many truckers also have access to medical and dental insurance, a 401k plan, and life insurance.

While the current high demand for truckers makes now the perfect time to jumpstart your career, truck driving is a great option for a lucrative long-term job. Not only will you see financial benefits from the get go, but the job consistency and reliability will extend for years to come.