The industry of long haul trucking is a big part of our nation’s transportation economy. With more than 3.5 million drivers in the United States alone, long haul truckers are responsible for transporting over 70% of our country’s freight from one point to another!
If you have ever watched a movie featuring a trucker, you’re likely familiar with their jobs and the lifestyle that comes with them. However, the long-haul trucking industry is a lot different than the movies show it to be.
In reality, the job of a long-haul trucker can be rewarding, financially and emotionally. But it is also very challenging and requires a lot of patience, hard work and dedication to succeed.
When it comes to working long-haul, you have two options: be a company driver or a contract trucker. The main difference between the two is that company drivers have a stable job with a single company, while contract drivers pick up jobs when they are needed.
Companies who hire long-haul truckers usually have a fleet of vehicles that they use to transport goods across state lines and into Canada and Mexico. They typically employ a team of dedicated fleet managers and dispatchers who manage routes that stretch thousands of miles.
As a long-haul trucker, you’ll be delivering valuable cargo and materials over great distances, often overnight. The distance you cover depends on your company’s specific needs and what cargo you are carrying.
Hours of Service Regulations (HOS) dictate how many hours you can drive each day and how many days you can work in a row. You must rest during the day and keep records of your hours to ensure you comply with these regulations.
Safety Measures
The trucks that long-haul truckers drive look intimidating if you see them on the highway, but they are a lot safer than most other cars on the road. They are specially designed to be less susceptible to accidents and they have a large amount of protective equipment installed.
They also inspect their trucks and cargo before they leave, making sure it won’t shift or break during transportation. This is because long-haul trucks are a very expensive investment and the last thing you want to do is end up with a damaged shipment.
Earnings
Pay for long-haul truckers varies depending on the type of truck, its weight and cargo that it carries. For instance, a tanker truck that carries fuel will be paid higher than a tractor trailer that carries other kinds of products.
The long-haul trucking industry is one of the fastest growing careers in the United States, with a record number of women seeking to become drivers.
A career as a long-haul trucker can provide you with a very flexible schedule and a lucrative income. It also offers you a chance to travel and experience new places.
You could spend up to two weeks on a single route, which can make for long road trips and lots of time away from home. It also gives you the opportunity to meet new people and learn about the different cultures in your destination.