What is the Average Income of an Over-the-Road Truck Driver and Their Daily Work Hours?

Over-the-road (OTR) truck driving can be a lucrative career for those who are willing to work long, demanding hours. Understanding the average income and daily work hours is crucial for both prospective and current truck drivers.

How Much Does an OTR Truck Driver Make on Average?

The income of an OTR truck driver can vary widely based on whether they are an owner-operator or a company driver. According to industry insights, an owner-operator can earn around $2,500 per week, while a company driver might make around $1,200 per week. These figures serve as an average, with some weeks bringing in significantly more or less.

For instance, an owner-operator might make as much as $6,000 in a particularly successful week, whereas a tough week could see their income dip to as little as $6,000 spent. This variance in income is due to factors such as the type of loads taken, efficiency, and market conditions.

Annual Income of Commercial Truck Drivers

Commercial truck drivers have the potential to earn high salaries, often in the six-figure range annually. According to the National Labor Board in the USA, company drivers can earn anywhere from $50,000 to $125,000 per year. However, to achieve such salaries, careful research and selection of the right company is essential. Different firms have different standards and job requirements.

Weekly Earnings for Pro-Truck Drivers

Experienced OTR truck drivers can earn around $500 to $1,300 per week, especially if they manage their time effectively. Rookie truck drivers, on the other hand, might earn around $350 to $500 per week as they gain experience. Factors such as the amount of time spent at loading docks heavily influence earnings in this field.

Historical Earnings and Working Hours

Back in 2002, a seasoned OTR truck driver could make up to $90,000 per year, working close to 70 hours over 8 days. Over time, income and working hours have evolved with industry standards. As of August 10, 2022, the average annual salary for an OTR truck driver in the United States is approximately $69,264, which translates to around $33.30 per hour.

Daily Work Hours for OTR Truck Drivers

OTR truck drivers typically work 5 to 6 days a week, with a limited driving period of 11 hours per day, as prescribed by federal regulations. The total workday, accounting for driving, loading, and unloading, can easily stretch to 15 hours. In some cases, they may be away from home for 2 to 3 weeks to 2 to 3 months, depending on the job demands of their company.

To sum up, OTR truck driving is a rewarding but demanding profession. While it offers the potential for high earnings, it also requires flexibility and dedication to ensure maximum productivity and profitability. Always research thoroughly before entering any new venture and stay informed about industry trends and regulations.