Whether you’re a veteran trucker looking for a change or a new driver eager to join the profession, it can be difficult to know how to find a trucking job. There are a wide range of jobs available, hundreds of trucking companies to choose from and a few key skills and certifications that can make your job hunt easier and more lucrative. Here are a few easy steps to find national truck driving jobs that you can apply for today.
Going National or Staying Local
The trucking industry is broadly split into two categories: national and local. If you choose to go for long-haul trucking, you can see new areas of the country, enjoy long trips on the highway and typically earn a better salary.
Local trucking jobs are usually better for truckers with families, houses or other commitments to a particular area. A local job will still give you the joys of life on the road, but you’ll make it home most nights.
Once you’ve decided between national trucking jobs or a career staying local, there are some steps you can take to improve your application and find a job quickly. Thankfully, whether the economy is struggling or riding high, you can almost always find excellent jobs in the trucking industry.
Employee or Contractor
Some truckers are ready to start their own business and become an Owner Operator. If you own a truck and are looking for the ultimate freedom of owning your own company, search for contracting jobs in the industry. As a business owner, you’ll have the flexibility to choose the jobs you want and work directly with the client. If you’re looking to work as an employee for a reputable trucking company, you can enjoy all the benefits that come with working for an established brand.
Driving History
Like most jobs, you’ll find more high-paying trucking jobs with a history of driving. Licensed, professional drivers can expect to find a wider range of employment, usually with a higher pay or more flexible hours. Experienced drivers are needed in roles across the country, so you can expect to have a compelling application for high-paying national trucking jobs.
However, don’t let a lack of experience stop you from applying. Many trucking companies offer on-the-job training for new candidates. Of course, drivers with CDL licenses and trucking experience will gain access to the widest range of jobs, so strongly consider a CDL license to maximize your earning potential and job selection.
Licenses and Endorsements
In order to drive a truck for a living, you need a CDL license. These licenses come in a variety of classes and endorsements, such as:
- Class A
- Class B
- Class C
- Hazardous material endorsement
- Tandem trailer endorsement
- And more
Class A CDL drivers handle any combination of vehicles with more than 26,000 gross weight rating and a gross vehicle weight rating of 10,000 pounds for any vehicle being towed. A Class B CDL certifies you to drive a single vehicle with the same weight rating. Finally, Class C CDL licenses are used for vehicles with more than 15 passengers.
There are many endorsements that cover a variety of trucking situations. Most endorsements provide you with greater flexibility in hauling different types of cargo. From hazardous material and tankers to passengers and double trailers, the more endorsements you have the greater your chance of receiving the highest paying trucker jobs.
Consider the type of trucking you’d like to do before selecting your CDL license and endorsement. Most endorsements, such as the hazardous material endorsement, come with additional pay per mile.
The most lucrative jobs are reserved for truckers who have completed a reputable truck driving school or trained with an industry leader. However, there are many affordable CDL options and many companies are able to train, certify and endorse new drivers.
Easy Application
Once you’ve received your CDL license, your truck driving application should be simple and straightforward. National OTR jobs, or over the road trucking jobs, offer quick and easy applications designed to make your life easier.
Save time and compare a variety of competitive jobs by searching through an online database. Whether you’re looking for local jobs or ready to go national, you may be surprised with the amount of job openings. Don’t apply for a job with lower pay or a less desirable situation. Browse for jobs based on qualifications, location and other factors to find your dream job.
Browse Our Listings
At CDLjobs.com, we work hard to keep our database of trucking jobs up to date with the most competitive trucking jobs in the nation. Fill out an application today and share your information only with the trucking companies you’re willing to work for. Start your own business as a truck driver or join a growing workforce dedicated to deliver materials and products safely across the nation or in your own area.
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